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Noun: epiphysis (epiphyses)  i'pi-fi-sis
  1. The end of a long bone; initially separated from the main bone by a layer of cartilage that eventually ossifies so the parts become fused
     
  2. A small endocrine gland in the brain; situated beneath the back part of the corpus callosum; secretes melatonin
    - pineal gland, pineal body, epiphysis cerebri

Derived forms: epiphyses

Type of: ductless gland, endocrine, endocrine gland, long bone, os longum

Encyclopedia: Epiphysis