Ovary
/ˈoʊ.və.ri/noun
The part of the female reproductive system that produces eggs and hormones.
Did you know?The word comes from Latin ovum, meaning “egg,” so its ancient core is the same root behind everyday words like oval and ovum — a reminder that language often names bodies through symbols of shape and creation.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*h₂ówis
“egg”
Latin
Latin
ovum
“egg”
Late Latin
Latin
ovarium
“egg-containing organ”
16th Century
French
ovaire
“ovary”
Modern English
English
ovary
“female reproductive organ that produces eggs and hormones”