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

Strains such as Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus plantarum have been shown to lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety and improve emotional resilience. —Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 27 July 2025

That means more time to focus on important things, like regulating your cortisol levels or hunting down the perfect beach outfit. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 17 July 2025

High-pressure situations, like competitions, can put the body into states of hyperarousal, where the body is surging with cortisol, adrenaline, and dopamine. —Brook Choulet, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025

Engineers developed dental floss that tests cortisol levels. —Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harpers Magazine, 16 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

cortisone + -ol entry 1

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cortisol

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• catarrhal
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol
• guaiacol

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