Definition of hormonal

The word "hormonal" has its roots in the Greek word "hormē," meaning "to impel" or "to set in motion." In the late 19th century, the term "hormone" was coined by Swiss physiologist Étienne-Jules Marey to describe chemical substances produced by organs that stimulated certain physiological reactions. Derived from this, the term "hormonal" emerged in the early 20th century to describe the chemical substances themselves and subsequently, the bodily processes influenced by them. In common usage, "hormonal" is often associated with upheavals in the body's endocrine system, such as puberty, menstruation, or menopause. However, hormone production and regulation play a crucial role in many bodily functions, including growth, development, and metabolism. The increased understanding and awareness of hormones and their effects have led to the widespread use of the term "hormonal" in both medical and everyday contexts.