cortisol UK /ˈkɔː.tɪ.sɒl/US /ˈkoɹ.tɪˌsɔl/ noun2 •A glucocorticoid steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex 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. •(Internet) Stress. formscortisols