hypothalamus

hy·po·thal·a·mus

noun \-ˈtha-lə-məs\

Definition of HYPOTHALAMUS

: a basal part of the diencephalon that lies beneath the thalamus on each side, forms the floor of the third ventricle, and includes vital autonomic regulatory centers

Origin of HYPOTHALAMUS

New Latin

First Known Use: 1896

hy·po·thal·a·mus

noun \-ˈthal-ə-məs\   (Medical Dictionary)

plural ; hy·po·thal·a·mi \-ˌmī\ (audio pronunciation)

Medical Definition of HYPOTHALAMUS

: a basal part of the diencephalon that lies beneath the thalamus on each side, forms the floor of the third ventricle, and includes vital autonomic regulatory centers (as for the control of food intake)

hypothalamus

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Region of the brain containing a control centre for many autonomic-nervous-system functions. Its complex interaction with the pituitary gland makes it an important part of the endocrine system. As a critical link between the body's two control systems, the hypothalamus regulates homeostasis. Nervous and hormonal pathways connect it with the pituitary, which it stimulates to release various hormones. The hypothalamus influences food intake, weight regulation, fluid intake and balance, thirst, body heat, and the sleep cycle. Disorders can produce pituitary dysfunction, diabetes insipidus, insomnia, and temperature fluctuations.