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

If racing thoughts and elevated cortisol are what’s keeping you awake, this one targets the underlying problem rather than sedating you into unconsciousness. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson july 18, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 July 2026

Alcohol processing does follow a circadian rhythm, governed by the same internal clock that regulates body temperature and cortisol. — Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 17 July 2026

Foods, supplements, and practices for balancing that cortisol! — Ana Morales, Vogue, 16 July 2026

Researchers have since linked the practice to lower cortisol, lower blood pressure and a measurable lift in mood, partly credited to phytoncides, the aromatic compounds trees exhale. — David Hochman, Forbes.com, 11 July 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
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol
• gossypol
• 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