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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
No data show salt crystals shift serotonin or cortisol, and no evidence supports magnesium absorption through the soles of the feet. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Sep. 2026 That’s because it’s been shown to lower cortisol, boost serotonin and dopamine, encourage mindfulness, and reduce rumination, according to the report. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 3 Sep. 2026 Many also experience spikes in cortisol, which can make hair and skin thinner, and impair the gut barrier. — Bella Webb, Vogue, 28 Aug. 2026 Chronic stress, and specifically the stress hormone, cortisol, can push hair follicles prematurely out of the growth cycle into the resting-and-shedding phases. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 25 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for cortisol

See All Rhymes for cortisol

Browse Nearby Words

cortine
cortisol
cortisone
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cortisol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cortisol. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

cortisol

noun
cor·​ti·​sol ˈkȯrt-ə-ˌsȯl, -ˌzȯl, -ˌsōl, -ˌzōl How to pronounce cortisol (audio)
: 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cortisol

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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