pituitary

Everyday

(science) The pituitary gland is a small gland, about the size of a pea, under the brain; it makes hormones that control growth and many other body processes. tree →

In the lessons

In science and health lessons about hormones, the pituitary gland is often called the "master gland" because it tells other glands what to do. It controls growth: too much or too little growth hormone changes how tall someone grows.

Examples

• The pituitary gland is about the size of a pea. tree →
• The pituitary makes growth hormone. tree →
• Doctors checked her pituitary gland. tree →
• The pituitary is called the master gland. tree →
• The pituitary sits just below the brain. tree →
• Hormones from the pituitary travel in the blood. tree →

Note

Pronounced "pi-TYOO-i-tree". Usually in "pituitary gland". A gland is an organ that makes chemicals (hormones) for the body.