steroid

[steer-oid, ster-]

noun

1. any of a large group of fat-soluble organic compounds, as the sterols, bile acids, and sex hormones, most of which have specific physiological action.

2. anabolic steroid.

adjective

1. Also steroidal pertaining to or characteristic of a steroid.

steroid

/ ˈstɛr-, ˈstɪərɔɪd /

noun

1. biochem any of a large group of fat-soluble organic compounds containing a characteristic chemical ring system. The majority, including the sterols, bile acids, many hormones, and the D vitamins, have important physiological action

steroid

1. Any of a large class of organic compounds having as a basis 17 carbon atoms arranged in four rings fused together. Steroids include many biologically important compounds, including cholesterol and other sterols, the sex hormones (such as testosterone and estrogen), bile acids, adrenal hormones, plant alkaloids, and certain forms of vitamins.

2. Any of various hormones having the structure of a steroid that are made synthetically, especially for use in medicine.

3. An anabolic steroid.

steroid

1. A group of molecules that includes cholesterol. The sex hormones estrogen and testosterone are built from steroids, as are many modern anti-inflammatory drugs.

Steroids are often used illegally to increase the performance of competitive athletes of almost all age groups. They are banned in many athletic competitions, such as the Olympic Games.

Other Word Forms

• steroidal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of steroid¹

First recorded in 1925–30; ster(ol) + -oid

Word History and Origins

Origin of steroid¹

C20: from _sterol + _-oid

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. on steroids, much larger, stronger, or more extreme than is normal or expected.

   Yosemite is nature on steroids. He's so lovable, he's like Santa Claus on steroids.

Example Sentences

The treatment was considered safe, although some patients did develop inflammation from the virus that caused headaches and confusion that either resolved or needed steroid treatment.

From BBC

Early detection allows customised treatment: a drug cocktail of antimicrobials and steroids targeting the amoeba can save lives.

From BBC

Sophia was given steroid shots to help with her symptoms but her mum believes they led her weight to balloon.

From BBC

A man who is bringing a High Court challenge against the Metropolitan Police after live facial recognition technology wrongly identified him as a suspect has described it as "stop and search on steroids".

From BBC

Authorities also uncovered treadmills, bite sticks, steroids and records that detailed fight arrangements and wagering.

From Los Angeles Times