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Definition

noun

(1) The bodily system that consists of the endocrine glands that release their secretions (hormones) into the bloodstream to reach and act on target cells of specific organs.

(2) The animal system responsible for the production and secretion of hormones that aid in controlling the bodily metabolic activity, as well as serve as chemical messengers that allow cells to communicate with one another.

Supplement

The major human endocrine glands include:

• hypothalamus
• pituitary gland
• thyroid gland
• pancreas
• adrenal glands
• pineal gland
• gonads

See also: hormone