Gigantism
/d͡ʒaɪˈɡæntɪzəm/ noun
noun ·Uncommon ·Advanced level
Definitions
Noun
- 1 The quality or state of being gigantic; being of abnormally large size. countable, uncountable
- 2 excessive largeness of stature wordnet
- 3 A condition where there is over-production of growth hormone by the pituitary gland in a child before the bone growth plates close, resulting in excessive long bone growth, accompanied by muscular weakness and sexual impotence. countable, uncountable
"He [...] may have had a condition called gigantism that explained his notable height."
- 4 excessive size; usually caused by excessive secretion of growth hormone from the pituitary gland wordnet
Example
More examples""Gigantism is an evolutionary survival strategy, especially for herbivorous animals, because size is a form of defense against predators," Apaldetti said."
Etymology
From French gigantisme, from Latin gigans (“giant”).