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.
After 72 hours of recovery, researchers found that cortisol was undetectable in all but one dogfish. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2026 Morning sessions align with the body’s natural cortisol peak, and people who exercise early tend to finish before the day’s demands get in the way, which tends to help adherence. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 15 Oct. 2026 Pouring caffeine on top of that peak can push cortisol even higher, which Cheng said may contribute to anxiety and restlessness. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 15 Oct. 2026 Still, the clock on the wall shapes how your workout interacts with cortisol, sleep and energy. — Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 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 20 Oct. 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

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