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

This helps reduce the fight-or-flight response to stress and lowers cortisol levels, creating a feeling of safety and comfort. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025

Now creating content and product around cortisol, the stress hormone, seems to be the new way to go. —Emily Burns, WWD, 7 Jan. 2025

In 2006, a study published in the journal Physiology and Behavior found dogs entering the shelter system had around three times the level of cortisol, a stress hormone, in their system during their first three days there than dogs in a normal residential setting. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 2 Jan. 2025

However, if your body is under chronic stress, your cortisol levels will remain high for long periods, which disrupts the body’s ability to cope with and manage stress. —Carrie Madormo, Rn, Mph, Verywell Health, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

cortisone + -ol entry 1

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

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