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

When stress hits, the body releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. —Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 22 Apr. 2026

While those other factors are important, every process in the body exists downstream of energy flow, Picard says — for cortisol to rise, for neurons to fire, for the microbiome to function, energy has to move through the system. —Jasna Hodžić, Big Think, 22 Apr. 2026

According to researchers, this suggests that stress hormones, such as cortisol, may contribute to high blood pressure. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 21 Apr. 2026

However, reconnecting to himself through music and exercise has kept his cortisol down. —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 16 Apr. 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