adrenal gland

noun

: either of a pair of complex endocrine organs near the anterior medial border of the kidney consisting of a mesodermal cortex that produces glucocorticoid, mineralocorticoid, and androgenic hormones and an ectodermal medulla that produces epinephrine and norepinephrine

called also adrenal, suprarenal gland

Examples of adrenal gland in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Read More: Why Zero Stress Shouldn’t Be Your Goal The adrenal glands, which sit atop the kidneys, produce and release multiple hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline. —Jamie Ducharme, TIME, 11 Oct. 2024

At the most extreme level, for example, are tumors of the adrenal glands, or pheochromocytomas, which commonly lead to high blood pressure that reaches life-threatening levels. —Angela Haupt, TIME, 18 Oct. 2024

Cortisol Release: The adrenal glands release cortisol, the stress hormone, which leads to anxiety and impairs cognitive functions. —Dr. Adil Dalal, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024

Precautions Minoxidil should not be used in people with pheochromocytoma, which is a hormonal tumor of the adrenal glands that sits on top of the kidneys.3 Finasteride should not be used during pregnancy.2 Which One Works Better for Hair Loss? —Ross Phan, Pharmd, Bcacp, Bcgp, Bcps, Verywell Health, 3 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

adrenal gland

noun

: either of a pair of endocrine glands that are located near the kidney and produce the hormone epinephrine

Medical Definition

adrenal gland

noun

: either of a pair of complex endocrine organs near the anterior medial border of the kidney consisting of a mesodermal cortex that produces glucocorticoid, mineralocorticoid, and androgenic hormones and an ectodermal medulla that produces epinephrine and norepinephrine

called also adrenal, suprarenal gland