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
These tests, done through extensive bloodwork, measure everything from testosterone and environmental toxins to cortisol and insulin—almost 180 biomarkers get checked.
—
Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 14 May 2026
The authors suggest that because exercise boosts feel-good hormones, such as dopamine, and reduces the stress hormone cortisol, smokers who work out feel less inclined to use nicotine as a brain reward.
—Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 9 May 2026
Even dim light during sleep can raise next-day cortisol and disrupt sleep quality.
—Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 9 May 2026
My cortisol would be raised to levels previously unexplored by human beings.
—Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for cortisol
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Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 14 May 2026
The authors suggest that because exercise boosts feel-good hormones, such as dopamine, and reduces the stress hormone cortisol, smokers who work out feel less inclined to use nicotine as a brain reward.
—Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 9 May 2026
Even dim light during sleep can raise next-day cortisol and disrupt sleep quality.
—Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 9 May 2026
My cortisol would be raised to levels previously unexplored by human beings.
—Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for cortisol
Cite this Entry
“Cortisol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cortisol. Accessed 17 May. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical 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
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