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

Kindness can lower cortisol, one of the hormones responsible for our fight-or-flight response. —Chris John Amorosino, Hartford Courant, 26 Mar. 2026

Such noises can increase stress hormones like cortisol and send your body into fight-or-flight mode, raising your heart rate and blood pressure in the process. —Laura Kiniry, Popular Science, 25 Mar. 2026

When glucose drops too low overnight, the body releases cortisol, adrenaline and glucagon to correct it, and that response can jolt you awake. —Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 23 Mar. 2026

Consistent sleep and wake times, plus morning light exposure, support cortisol and melatonin regulation over time. —Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 23 Mar. 2026

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