How Do You Spell THYREOID?

Pronunciation: [θˈa͡ɪɹɪˌɔ͡ɪd] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the term for the gland that regulates metabolism is "thyroid." It is pronounced /ˈθaɪrɔɪd/ or "THY-royd." The incorrect spelling, "thyreoid," may be a result of confusion with other medical terms ending in "-oid," which means "like" or "resembling." However, it is important to use the correct spelling to avoid confusion in medical communication and to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment for patients with thyroid disorders.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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THYREOID Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "thyroid" refers to a gland located in the neck, specifically in the lower front region. It is an essential part of the endocrine system, responsible for producing, storing, and releasing hormones into the bloodstream, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play crucial roles in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, growth, and development.

    The thyroid gland consists of two lobes on either side of the windpipe that are connected by a bridge-like structure called the isthmus. It is composed of follicular cells, which are responsible for synthesizing and secreting the thyroid hormones. Additionally, the gland also contains parafollicular cells that generate calcitonin, another hormone involved in regulating calcium levels in the body.

    Thyroid function is predominantly controlled by the pituitary gland, which releases a hormone called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release T3 and T4 in response to the body's metabolic needs. An imbalance in thyroid hormone production can lead to various disorders, such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

    Thyroid-related conditions can manifest in several ways, including changes in weight, energy levels, mood, body temperature, and overall health. These disorders may require medical intervention, including hormone replacement therapy or other treatments, to normalize thyroid function and maintain overall wellbeing.

  2. Thyroid.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for THYREOID

Etymology of THYREOID

The word "thyreoid" is derived from the Greek word "thuréoeidēs", which combines "thuréos" (meaning "shield") and "eidos" (meaning "like" or "resembling"). This term was used in ancient Greek medicine to describe the shape of the thyroid gland, which resembles a small shield or an oblong shield. Over time, the term "thyreoid" came to be used in various languages to refer to the thyroid gland or pertaining to it.