hormone
/ˈhɔːməʊn/
A regulatory substance produced in an organism and transported in blood to a distant organ to elicit a specific biological response. It carries the connotation of internal control, signaling, and physiological balance. In medical and scientific contexts, it is used with clinical precision. In casual conversation, however, "hormones" often serve as a shorthand for emotional volatility or uncontrollable urges, particularly during puberty or pregnancy (e.g., "It's just the hormones talking"). Unlike 'neurotransmitters', which act quickly across small gaps between neurons, hormones are viewed as systemic messengers that travel longer distances and typically produce slower, more sustained effects on growth, metabolism, and mood.
💬Casual Conversation
Chloe is being impossible today. Just slammed her door for no reason.
IT'S PROBABLY JUST HORMONES, DEAR. SHE'S AT THAT AGE.
Meanings
A regulatory substance produced in an endocrine gland and transported by the blood to a distant target organ to regulate a specific physiological process.
"The pancreas secretes the hormone insulin to regulate blood sugar levels."
A chemical substance produced by plants that regulates growth and development.
"Auxin is a plant hormone that promotes cell elongation in stems."
Collocations & Compounds
hormone therapy
Treatment of a disease or condition by the administration of hormones, especially to counteract a deficiency.
She is undergoing hormone therapy for menopause.
sex hormone
A steroid hormone, such as testosterone or estrogen, that is produced by the reproductive organs and influences the development and maintenance of secondary sex characteristics.
The doctor explained the role of the sex hormone in puberty.
growth hormone
A protein hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates growth in cells and tissues.
Children with a deficiency in growth hormone may receive injections to help them grow.
stress hormone
A hormone, such as cortisol or adrenaline, that is released in response to stress.
Cortisol is a key stress hormone.
hormone replacement therapy
Therapy to replace hormones that have decreased or are no longer being produced by the body, typically used to manage symptoms of menopause.
Many women opt for hormone replacement therapy to alleviate menopausal symptoms.
Etymology
The word 'hormone' comes from the Greek word 'hormē', meaning 'impetus' or 'urge to set in motion'. It was coined in 1905 by British physiologist Ernest Starling, who was studying the chemical signaling system in the body that regulates bodily functions. He chose this term to describe substances secreted by endocrine glands that travel through the bloodstream to target organs, stimulating them to action.