estrogen

[ es-truh-juhn ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any of several major sex hormones produced primarily by the ovarian follicles of mammals, capable of inducing estrus, developing and maintaining secondary female sex characteristics, and preparing the uterus for the reception of a fertilized egg: used, especially in synthetic form, as a component of oral contraceptives, in certain cancer treatments, and in other therapies.

estrogen

/ ˌɛstrəˈdʒɛnɪk; ˈɛstrədʒən; ˌiːstrə-; ˈiːstrə- /

noun

1. the usual US spelling of oestrogen

estrogen

/ ĕs′trə-jən /

1. Any of a group of steroid hormones that primarily regulate the growth, development, and function of the female reproductive system. The main sources of estrogen in the body are the ovaries and the placenta. Estrogen-like compounds are also formed by certain plants.

estrogen

1. A group of hormones , secreted mainly by the ovaries , that influence the female reproductive system in many ways, notably in preparing the body for ovulation and in the development of female secondary sex characteristics .

Derived Forms

• estrogenic, adjective
• ˌestroˈgenically, adverb

Other Words From

• anti·estro·gen noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of estrogen¹

First recorded in 1925–30; estr(us) + -o- + -gen

Example Sentences

The chances of experiencing prolapse also goes up in general with age, as estrogen levels decrease the strength of the connective tissues in the area during perimenopause.

From Salon

Kennedy, who spent tens of minutes ranting about seed oils, estrogen and pharmaceutical companies, also promoted in his speech the same conspiracy theories against vaccines that he’s lobbed for years.

From Salon

However, some substances, such as environmental estrogens can pass through the placental barrier and are suspected of being associated with various diseases.

From Science Daily

When the couple’s older child was 19, living at home as a college student, Mrs. James got a call from the pharmacy informing her that her child’s prescription for estradiol, or estrogen, was ready.

From New York Times

What we do know is that estrogen has protective properties for women.

From Los Angeles Times