Which gland is referred to as the 'master' endocrine gland in the human body?

The pituitary gland is referred to as the 'master' endocrine gland due to its crucial role in the regulation and coordination of various hormonal functions throughout the body. It is situated at the base of the brain and secretes a variety of hormones that stimulate other endocrine glands to release their hormones. For instance, the pituitary produces hormones that influence growth (growth hormone), metabolism (thyroid-stimulating hormone), and stress responses (adrenocorticotropic hormone) by acting on the thyroid gland and adrenal glands, among others. This central role in controlling diverse physiological processes highlights its designation as the 'master' gland in the endocrine system.