What is another name for the pituitary gland?

The pituitary gland is also known as the hypophysis. This term is derived from the Greek word "hypophysis," which means "to grow under." The hypophysis is a crucial part of the endocrine system, situated at the base of the brain, and is responsible for producing and regulating various hormones that control important bodily functions, such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

The other options refer to different parts of the endocrine system: the hypothalamus is a separate brain region that controls the pituitary gland, while the thyroid and adrenal glands are distinct organs that also produce hormones, each with specific functions in the body. Understanding the role of the hypophysis helps in grasping the interconnectedness of the endocrine system and the regulation of bodily functions.