/es'treuh duy"awl, -ol/ , n.
1. Biochem. an estrogenic hormone, C 18 H 24 O 2 , produced by the maturing Graafian follicle, that causes proliferation and thickening of the tissues and blood vessels of the endometrium.
2. Pharm. a commercial form of this compound, obtained from the urine of pregnant humans and mares or synthesized, used in the treatment of estrogen deficiency and certain menopausal and postmenopausal conditions.
[ 1930-35; estra- (comb. form repr. ESTRIN) + DI- 1 + -OL 1 ]