Parathyroid (noun)

Any of four small endocrine glands located near or attached to the thyroid gland that produce parathormone, which helps regulate the body's levels of calcium and phosphorus.

Origin:

Derived from the greek words "para" meaning "beside" and "thyreos" meaning "shield", the word "parathyroid" came into use in the 19th century.

Examples:

1. Parathyroid hormone regulates the levels of calcium in the blood.
2. The parathyroid glands are located in the neck.
3. Hyperparathyroidism is a condition where the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone.
4. Parathyroid tumors are rare but can cause hypercalcemia.
5. Parathyroid hormone is essential for bone health.