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

However, if your body is under chronic stress, your cortisol levels will remain high for long periods, which disrupts the body’s ability to cope with and manage stress. —Carrie Madormo, Rn, Mph, Verywell Health, 19 Dec. 2024

Constant high-pressure situations increase cortisol levels, leading to hypertension. —Basel Ramlawi, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024

The same goes for sugary foods, which cause cortisol levels—and stress feelings—to soar. —Jeanne Ballion, Vogue, 13 Dec. 2024

In 2023, researchers looked at eight studies with 315 participants, mostly around 38 years old, to see how laughter affects stress by measuring cortisol, a stress hormone. —Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 11 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

cortisone + -ol entry 1

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

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