noun
pituitary gland; hypophysis
Anatomical term for the pituitary gland. Often used in medical contexts; the fuller term 脳下垂体 is also common.
See also: 脳下垂体
下垂体はホルモンの分泌を調節する重要な器官です。
The pituitary gland is an important organ that regulates hormone secretion.
From 下 (ka, 'below') + 垂 (sui, 'hang down') + 体 (tai, 'body'), referring to the gland's location hanging below the brain. The reading is on'yomi.