Calcitonin

/ˌkælsɪˈtoʊnɪn/ noun

Definition

A hormone produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate calcium levels in the blood by moving calcium into bones.

Etymology

From Latin 'calx' (calcium) + '-tonin' (from 'tone,' suggesting regulation or control). Discovered in the 1960s when scientists identified this calcium-regulating hormone.

Kelly Says

Your body is constantly using calcitonin to keep your bones strong—without it, calcium would leak out of your bones and make them weak, which is why this hormone is being studied for osteoporosis treatment!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.