sex hormone

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any of a class of steroid hormones that regulate the growth and function of the reproductive organs or stimulate the development of the secondary sexual characteristics.

sex hormone

noun

1. an animal hormone affecting development and growth of reproductive organs and related parts

sex hormone

1. Any of various steroid hormones that regulate the sexual development of an organism and are needed for reproduction. Testosterone and estrogen are sex hormones.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sex hormone¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Female athletes are especially at risk, with studies showing no adaptation benefit to fasted training, but major risk to bone health and sex hormone balance.

From Outside Online

A year later they were referred to an endocrinologist, who prescribed the sex hormone testosterone.

From Science News

In men, low levels of sex hormones such as testosterone substitute for menstrual irregularities.

From Outside Online

If you don’t eat enough, either overall or during the periods of the day when you need it most to support your training, you’ll end up with lower levels of sex hormones.

From Outside Online

Though we’re used to thinking of the sex hormones in a “testosterone is for men, estrogen is for women” kind of way, both sexes produce both hormones.

From Popular-Science