autacoid

[ aw-tuh-koid ]

noun

, Physiology.

1. any physiologically active internal secretion, especially one of uncertain classification, as histamine or prostaglandin.

autacoid

/ ˈɔːtəˌkɔɪd /

noun

1. physiol any natural internal secretion, esp one that exerts an effect similar to a drug

Other Words From

• auta·coidal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of autacoid¹

1910–15; aut- + Greek ák ( os ) remedy + -oid

Word History and Origins

Origin of autacoid¹

C20: from auto- + Greek akos cure + -oid