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

The chaos kept my cortisol levels high long after leaving for the day. — Garret Gray, Forbes.com, 24 Sep. 2026

Yoga, tai chi and Pilates show a strong cortisol-lowering effect in the literature. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 22 Sep. 2026

No data show salt crystals shift serotonin or cortisol, and no evidence supports magnesium absorption through the soles of the feet. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Sep. 2026

That’s because it’s been shown to lower cortisol, boost serotonin and dopamine, encourage mindfulness, and reduce rumination, according to the report. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 3 Sep. 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