steroid

noun ste·roid \ ˈster-ˌȯid also ˈstir- \

Updated on: 10 May 2018

Definition of steroid

: any of various compounds containing a 17-carbon 4-ring system and including the sterols and numerous hormones (such as anabolic steroids or corticosteroids) and glycosides

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steroid

or steroidal play \stə-ˈrȯi-dᵊl\ adjective

See steroid defined for English-language learners

See steroid defined for kids

Examples of steroid in a Sentence

He was accused of taking steroids.

Recent Examples of steroid from the Web

Pro tip: Pack a change of clothing for nighttime and experience the wonders of a Bioluminescent Bay—a rare phenomenon that occurs when microorganisms emit light into the water (think: fireflies on steroids).

— jessi walker, Marie Claire, "Weekend Trip Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Drink in Rincón, Puerto Rico," 25 Apr. 2018
Well, the Instant Pot is like a crock pot on steroids.

— the editors, Outside Online, "17 Graduation Gifts for Her," 24 Apr. 2018
Treatment: Lin says people can treat symptoms with over-the-counter medications, including antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays, or prescription medication from a doctor.

— sarah gray, Time, "Brace Yourselves: Spring Allergy Season Is Coming. Here's What to Expect and How to Handle It," 11 Apr. 2018
Because traction alopecia is caused by inflammation, Henry injects the scalp with steroids.

— crystal martin, ajc, "What black women need to know about hair loss," 8 Apr. 2018
Meanwhile, as the Warriors be illin’, the rest of the Western Conference is blooming like roses on steroids.

— scott ostler, San Francisco Chronicle, "For Warriors, playoffs could be bumpy ride," 25 Mar. 2018
But uncontrolled asthma might require oral steroids, which creates an additional set of factors that can complicate the pregnancy and birth.

— dr. megan kasper, idahostatesman, "My fellow women: I have a question for you | Idaho Statesman," 23 Mar. 2018
If flakes are still falling, a topical steroid may be in order.

— mona gohara, Good Housekeeping, "7 Common Scalp Issues — And How to Treat Them," 13 Mar. 2018
Sean and Patrick both receive monthly blood transfusions that keep them alive, while the younger brothers currently respond to regular oral steroid treatment.

— caitlin keating, PEOPLE.com, "Four Brothers with Fatal Disease Fight for Their Lives: 'We Might Not Live Past Our 30s'," 29 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'steroid.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of steroid

International Scientific Vocabulary sterol + -oid

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1926

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

STEROID Defined for English Language Learners

steroid

noun

Definition of steroid for English Language Learners

: a natural substance that is produced in the body

STEROID Defined for Kids

steroid

noun ste·roid \ ˈstir-ˌȯid , ˈster- \

Definition of steroid for Students

: any of various chemical compounds that include many hormones (as anabolic steroids)

Medical Dictionary

steroid

noun ste·roid \ ˈsti(ə)r-ˌȯid also ˈste(ə)r- \

medical Definition of steroid

: any of numerous natural or synthetic compounds containing a 17-carbon 4-ring system and including the sterols and various hormones and glycosides — see anabolic steroid

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