What is "epiphyses"

Epiphysis \E*piph"y*sis\, n.; pl. Epiphyses. [NL., fr. Gr. 'epi`fysis, fr. 'epify`ein to grow upon; 'epi` upon + fy`ein to grow.] (Anat.)

1. The end, or other superficial part, of a bone, which ossifies separately from the central portion, or diaphysis.

2. The cerebral epiphysis, or pineal gland. See Pineal gland, under Pineal.

n. (plural of epiphysis English)

See epiphysis

1. n. 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 [syn: pineal gland, pineal body, epiphysis cerebri]

3. [also: epiphyses (pl)]