Definition

A type of steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate metabolism and is often used to treat inflammation and various medical conditions.

Example

The doctor prescribed cortisone to help reduce the swelling in my joints.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of cortisone injections for joint pain?

Yeah, I think they can really help with inflammation.

I might need one since my knees have been acting up lately.

That sounds like a good idea; it could give you some relief.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cortisone is derived from "cortex" (from Latin, meaning bark or outer layer) and the suffix "-one" (indicating a ketone or steroid). The word refers to a steroid hormone produced by the outer layer of the adrenal gland, hence its connection to the term for outer layer.

Memory Tip

Think of 'cortex' as the outer layer of something, like the adrenal gland, and remember that cortisone is a hormone from that outer layer.

Visually Confused Words