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.
The Oura Ring education content emphasizes that first-thing sunlight suppresses melatonin and boosts cortisol. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 25 July 2026 Other bright-light studies show roughly 20% to 40% higher peak cortisol in the first hour after awakening when subjects are exposed to bright morning light compared with dim light, though exact figures differ by study. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 25 July 2026 This physically flushes out residual cortisol and lowers your nervous system's internal temperature. — Luciana Paulise, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026 Future versions may be able to monitor biomarkers such as glucose or cortisol. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 21 July 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 2 Aug. 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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