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

What foods are known to trigger our cortisol levels? —Audrey Noble, Vogue, 25 June 2025

Your Cortisol Levels May Increase Fasting in the morning may cause your cortisol levels to increase. —Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 23 June 2025

Studies show that spending time in natural settings can lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and help to calm the mind. —Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025

Even one single night of sleep deprivation in healthy young adults elevates cortisol levels and reduces muscle protein synthesis, inhibiting tissue repair and delaying muscle growth, according to a study published in the journal Physiological Reports. —Dana Santas, CNN Money, 23 May 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