cortisol

noun

cor·​ti·​sol ˈkȯr-tə-ˌsȯl 

-ˌzȯl,

-ˌsōl,

-ˌzōl

: a glucocorticoid C₂₁H₃₀O₅ produced by the adrenal cortex upon stimulation by ACTH that mediates various metabolic processes (such as gluconeogenesis), has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, and whose levels in the blood may become elevated in response to physical or psychological stress

called also hydrocortisone

Examples of cortisol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Counterintuitively, cortisol levels were lower in people who survived the bombing. —New Atlas, 12 Apr. 2025

Contrary to expectations, many survivors’ cortisol levels were lower. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 10 Apr. 2025

Research has indicated a strong correlation between high cortisol levels—the hormone the body releases during stress—and high LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar and blood pressure levels. —Jackie Nance-Sons, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025

Researchers believe that high cortisol levels reduce hair growth and impair the stem cells needed for hair growth.7 7. —Patty Weasler, Rn, Verywell Health, 28 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

cortisone + -ol entry 1

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cortisol

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• catarrhal
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol
• guaiacol

Medical Definition

cortisol

noun

cor·​ti·​sol ˈkȯrt-ə-ˌsȯl, -ˌzȯl, -ˌsōl, -ˌzōl 

: a glucocorticoid C₂₁H₃₀O₅ produced by the adrenal cortex upon stimulation by ACTH that mediates various metabolic processes (as gluconeogenesis), has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, and whose levels in the blood may become elevated in response to physical or psychological stress

called also hydrocortisone