ox·y·to·cin ( k s -t  sn)n. A short polypeptide hormone, C43H66N12O12S2, released from the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, that stimulates the contraction of smooth muscle of the uterus during labor and facilitates ejection of milk from the breast during nursing. |
oxytocin [ˌɒksɪˈtəʊsɪn]
n
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biochemistry) a polypeptide hormone, secreted by the pituitary gland, that stimulates contractions of the uterus or oviduct and ejection of milk in mammals; alphahypophame: used therapeutically for aiding childbirth. Formula: C43H68N12O12S2 Compare vasopressin
| oxytocin (ks-tsn) A polypeptide hormone secreted by the posterior portion of the pituitary gland. Oxytocin stimulates the contraction of smooth muscle of the uterus during childbirth and facilitates ejection of milk from the mammary glands. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | oxytocin - hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary gland (trade name Pitocin); stimulates contractions of the uterus and ejection of milk endocrine, hormone, internal secretion - the secretion of an endocrine gland that is transmitted by the blood to the tissue on which it has a specific effect |
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