epiphysis Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun 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. noun a small endocrine gland in the brain; situated beneath the back part of the corpus callosum; secretes melatonin
    epiphysis cerebri; pineal body; pineal gland.

WordNet

E*piph"y*sis noun
Etymology
NL., fr. Gr. , fr. to grow upon; upon + to grow.
Wordforms
plural Epiphyses
Definitions
  1. (Anat.) (a) The end, or other superficial part, of a bone, which ossifies separately from the central portion, or diaphysis. (b) The cerebral epiphysis, or pineal gland. See Pineal gland, under Pineal.

Webster 1913