Prostaglandin
noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Definitions
- 1 Any of a group of naturally occurring lipids derived from the C₂₀ acid prostanoic acid; they have a number of physiological functions and may be considered to be hormones.
"This enzyme generates an inflammatory mediator known as prostaglandin, which triggers pain and other aspects of inflammation."
- 2 a potent substance that acts like a hormone and is found in many bodily tissues (and especially in semen); produced in response to trauma and may affect blood pressure and metabolism and smooth muscle activity wordnet
Example
More examples"Scientists have learned how aspirin interferes with a protein enzyme. One form of the enzyme makes the prostaglandin that causes pain and swelling. Another form of the enzyme creates the protective kind of compound. So, while aspirin can reduce pain and swelling in damaged tissues, it also can harm the lining of the stomach and small intestine. Still, aspirin does things that other drugs for treating pain cannot do."
Etymology
From German Prostaglandin. Equivalent to prosta(te) + gland + -in. So called because it was originally believed to be secreted by the prostate.
Related phrases
More for "prostaglandin"
Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.