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
In fact, research suggests massage can significantly lower levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone that your body makes.
—
Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 4 Sep. 2025
The supplement also contains a blend of plant extracts shown to support digestion, cortisol, progesterone and estrogen levels to assist in weight management, reduce flatulence, decrease occasional heart burn, relieve mild gastrointestinal tract discomfort, and curb carb cravings.
—Chloe Castleberry, Flow Space, 3 Sep. 2025
Compared to a slow suffocation on the deck of a boat, Ikejime can dramatically improve the quality of the fish by reducing stress for the animal and minimizing the release of stress hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and lactic acid.
—Akiko Katayama, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025
When this system is activated, heart rate slows, cortisol drops, and cognitive clarity usually improves.
—Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 29 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cortisol
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Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 4 Sep. 2025
The supplement also contains a blend of plant extracts shown to support digestion, cortisol, progesterone and estrogen levels to assist in weight management, reduce flatulence, decrease occasional heart burn, relieve mild gastrointestinal tract discomfort, and curb carb cravings.
—Chloe Castleberry, Flow Space, 3 Sep. 2025
Compared to a slow suffocation on the deck of a boat, Ikejime can dramatically improve the quality of the fish by reducing stress for the animal and minimizing the release of stress hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and lactic acid.
—Akiko Katayama, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025
When this system is activated, heart rate slows, cortisol drops, and cognitive clarity usually improves.
—Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 29 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cortisol
Cite this Entry
“Cortisol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cortisol. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.
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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