Definition

A type of steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that helps regulate various functions in the body, including metabolism and immune response.

Example

Doctors often prescribe corticoids to reduce inflammation in patients with autoimmune diseases.

Conversation

Have you heard about corticoids and their uses in medicine?

Yeah, I think they are important for treating inflammation.

Exactly! My doctor mentioned a corticoid for my allergy issues.

That makes sense; they can really help with symptoms like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Corticoid → It is formed from "cortex" (from Latin *cortex*, meaning bark or outer layer) and "-oid" (from Greek *eidos*, meaning form or resemblance). The word "corticoid" refers to substances that resemble or are derived from the outer layer of the adrenal cortex.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'outer layer' ('cortex') of something and how 'oid' means resembling. This helps you remember that 'corticoid' refers to substances that resemble the outer layer of the adrenal cortex.

Visually Confused Words