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
One recent study performed in mice found that removing a stress hormone (the equivalent of cortisol in humans) triggered rapid hair growth cycles, regardless of factors like aging.
—
Cristina Mutchler, Health, 30 Jan. 2025
Another 2021 study found that sleep deprivation increased levels of cortisol during interpersonal conflict.
—Daisy Jones, Vogue, 26 Jan. 2025
Chronic stress, when the sympathetic nervous system doesn’t have a chance to release control, stimulates cortisol production.
—Shani Harmon, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025
According to health system Piedmont Healthcare, practicing hygge can lower the adrenal stress response and lessen cortisol spikes.
—Sarah Buder, AFAR Media, 20 Jan. 2025
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Cristina Mutchler, Health, 30 Jan. 2025
Another 2021 study found that sleep deprivation increased levels of cortisol during interpersonal conflict.
—Daisy Jones, Vogue, 26 Jan. 2025
Chronic stress, when the sympathetic nervous system doesn’t have a chance to release control, stimulates cortisol production.
—Shani Harmon, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025
According to health system Piedmont Healthcare, practicing hygge can lower the adrenal stress response and lessen cortisol spikes.
—Sarah Buder, AFAR Media, 20 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for cortisol
Dictionary Entries Near cortisol
Cite this Entry
“Cortisol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cortisol. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical 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
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