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

One unique approach involved collecting 277 hair samples in the first wave of the study to gauge participants’ cortisol levels, which helps measure stress in the body. —Ryan Hogg, Fortune Europe, 5 Nov. 2024

The research shows that even brief mindfulness exercises can significantly lower cortisol levels and improve cognitive function under pressure. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

That’s when employing relaxation routines can really help: meditation apps, finding a nearby yoga class, or just gently stretching in your room can also help bring down your cortisol levels to a lower baseline and help improve your sleep quality. —Anita Bhagwandas, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2024

Quieting your mind stimulates the part of your brain that dampens the surges of adrenaline and cortisol accompanying stress. —Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 1 Nov. 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