growth hormone

noun

1

: a vertebrate polypeptide hormone that is secreted by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland and regulates growth

also : a recombinant version of this hormone

called also somatotropin

2

: growth regulator

Examples of growth hormone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Loyal also has both a shot and a pill in the works to lengthen large dogs’ short lifespans by limiting a growth hormone more prevalent in big dogs than small. —Amy Feldman, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025

The bison are raised without any antibiotics or growth hormones, which translates to richer flavor. —Kate Kassin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 23 July 2025

Experts say now that Anna likely suffered the effects of an excess growth hormone from her pituitary gland. —Jane Smiley june 20, Literary Hub, 20 June 2025

Talks of cuts to Medicaid at the federal level take Beaver’s mind straight to the growth hormone her daughter has been taking for more than two years. —Briah Lumpkins, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for growth hormone

• acetone
• anglophone
• baritone
• bourguignon
• buspirone
• chaperon
• chaperone
• cobblestone
• collarbone
• cornerstone
• cortisone
• dictaphone

Kids Definition

growth hormone

noun

: a hormone in plants or animals that regulates growth

especially : one produced by the pituitary gland

Medical Definition

growth hormone

noun

: a vertebrate polypeptide hormone that is secreted by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland and regulates growth

also : a recombinant version of this hormone

called also somatotropic hormone, somatotropin

see human growth hormone