: any of various steroid hormones (such as cortisol, cortisone, or aldosterone) that are produced by the adrenal cortex (see cortex sense 1(a)1) from cholesterol
also
: any of various synthetic derivatives (such as prednisone or dexamethasone) of these steroid hormones that are used as drugs
Note: Corticosteroids are classified according to their physiological activity as glucocorticoids, which chiefly regulate carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism, and mineralocorticoids, which chiefly regulate electrolyte and fluid balance in the body. Androgens (such as androstenedione) are also produced by the adrenal cortex and are sometimes classified as corticosteroids.
Examples of corticosteroid in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Options may include topical corticosteroids or nonsteroidal immunomodulators, which are often used on sensitive areas or for long-term control.
—
Daryl Austin, USA Today, 7 Oct. 2025
Treatments include long-lasting antihistamines, anti-itch creams, and topical or oral corticosteroids.
—Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 1 Oct. 2025
Treatment is given based on symptoms and corticosteroids is the first line of treatment.
—Dr. John De Jong, Boston Herald, 28 Sep. 2025
Some common medications that affect nipple size include chemotherapy, medications for the prostate, corticosteroids, and HIV medications.2
Genetics: Some people are predisposed to having puffy nipples.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 21 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for corticosteroid
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Daryl Austin, USA Today, 7 Oct. 2025
Treatments include long-lasting antihistamines, anti-itch creams, and topical or oral corticosteroids.
—Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 1 Oct. 2025
Treatment is given based on symptoms and corticosteroids is the first line of treatment.
—Dr. John De Jong, Boston Herald, 28 Sep. 2025
Some common medications that affect nipple size include chemotherapy, medications for the prostate, corticosteroids, and HIV medications.2
Genetics: Some people are predisposed to having puffy nipples.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 21 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for corticosteroid
Cite this Entry
“Corticosteroid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/corticosteroid. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
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