cortisol

noun

cor·​ti·​sol ˈkȯr-tə-ˌsȯl How to pronounce cortisol (audio)
-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
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One unique approach involved collecting 277 hair samples in the first wave of the study to gauge participants’ cortisol levels, which helps measure stress in the body. Ryan Hogg, Fortune Europe, 5 Nov. 2024 The research shows that even brief mindfulness exercises can significantly lower cortisol levels and improve cognitive function under pressure. Mark Travers, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 That’s when employing relaxation routines can really help: meditation apps, finding a nearby yoga class, or just gently stretching in your room can also help bring down your cortisol levels to a lower baseline and help improve your sleep quality. Anita Bhagwandas, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2024 Quieting your mind stimulates the part of your brain that dampens the surges of adrenaline and cortisol accompanying stress. Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cortisol 

Word History

Etymology

cortisone + -ol entry 1

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cortisol was in 1951

Dictionary Entries Near cortisol

Cite this Entry

“Cortisol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cortisol. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

cortisol

noun
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on cortisol

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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