E·piph·y·sis n.; pl. Epiphyses   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.
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 epiphyses
      See epiphysis
 epiphysis
      n 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 [syn:
          pineal gland, pineal body, epiphysis cerebri]
      [also: epiphyses (pl)]