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

In one analysis, participants who slept less than six hours for several nights experienced hormonal changes that increased appetite, decreased insulin sensitivity and elevated cortisol levels (the stress hormone that, in excess, can impair immunity and gut function). —Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025

Typically, cortisol levels decrease gradually throughout the day. —Helen Carefoot, Verywell Health, 16 May 2025

The more molecules that gather, the stronger the signal, meaning a higher cortisol level. —Michael Franco may 15, New Atlas, 15 May 2025

Stress and sleep issues—increase cortisol levels, which are linked to abdominal fat storage. —Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 15 May 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