adjective Uncommon

endocrine

EN-doh-krine

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Endocrine (adjective) means Endocrine describes a gland or secretion that releases substances directly into the bloodstream rather than through a duct. Example: “The thyroid is an endocrine gland that controls metabolism.”

adjective

technical Endocrine describes a gland or secretion that releases substances directly into the bloodstream rather than through a duct.

"The thyroid is an endocrine gland that controls metabolism."

"Endocrine disorders can upset the body's hormone balance."

"Her doctor referred her to an endocrine specialist about the imbalance."

How to use endocrine

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEndocrine means to do with glands that send hormones straight into the blood.

When to use it

This is a technical term used mainly in medicine and biology rather than casual conversation.

Memory tip

Pair endocrine with exocrine when you learn it, since biology courses usually teach the two together as a contrast.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

exocrine

Common pairings

endocrine gland endocrine system endocrine disorder endocrine hormone

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “endocrine” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The thyroid is an _____ gland that controls metabolism.

Etymology

Endocrine was borrowed from French endocrine, formed from the prefix endo- and the Ancient Greek verb krino, meaning to separate or to secrete.

Origin: French

Antonyms

exocrine

Rhymes for endocrine

nine mine wine line sine ovine amine thine shine Rhine Maine seine

See all rhymes for endocrine →

Frequently asked questions

What does endocrine mean?

It describes glands or secretions that release substances such as hormones straight into the bloodstream.

What is an example of an endocrine gland?

The thyroid is a well-known endocrine gland, since it releases hormones directly into the blood.

What is the opposite of endocrine?

Exocrine glands are the usual contrast, as they release their secretions through a duct instead of into the bloodstream.

What is the meaning of endocrine?

"endocrine" (adjective) means endocrine describes a gland or secretion that releases substances directly into the bloodstream rather than through a duct.