# pituitary

/pəˈtuəˌtɛɹi/ (US) · /pɪtjˈuːɪtəɹi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pituitary
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. the gland

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a small gland at the base of the brain that controls growth and other body functions.

For teachers: the pituitary gland; a pea-sized endocrine organ situated in the sella turcica at the base of the hypothalamus.

- The doctor explained that the pituitary controls many of the body's hormones.
- A tumor on the pituitary can disrupt the entire endocrine system, leading to significant hormonal imbalances and growth issues.

Usage: Often used as a shorthand for 'pituitary gland' in medical contexts.

### 2. relating to the gland

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

describing something that belongs to or is connected to the pituitary gland.

For teachers: of or relating to the pituitary gland or its functions.

- The patient was referred to a specialist for a pituitary disorder.
- The researcher focused on pituitary function and its role in regulating the body's response to chronic stress.

Usage: Typically placed before the noun it modifies.

## Examples

- The pituitary gland controls the production of growth hormone.
- Doctors often check the pituitary gland when a patient shows signs of hormonal imbalances, such as extreme fatigue or unusual weight gain.
- As the master gland of the endocrine system, the pituitary regulates the activity of other glands, including the thyroid and adrenal cortex, through the secretion of specific tropic hormones.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.