Steroid
/ˈstɛɹɔɪd/ noun
noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Definitions
Noun
- 1 A class of organic compounds having a structure of 17 carbon atoms arranged in four rings; they are lipids, and occur naturally as sterols, bile acids, adrenal and sex hormones, and some vitamins; many drugs are synthetic steroids.
- 2 any hormone affecting the development and growth of sex organs wordnet
- 3 Any anabolic hormone used to promote muscle growth or athletic performance.
"Men may also have fertility challenges, especially if their hypogonadism was caused by anabolic steroid use. Anabolic steroids can affect testicular health, including reducing the production of sperm."
- 4 any of several fat-soluble organic compounds having as a basis 17 carbon atoms in four rings; many have important physiological effects wordnet
Antonyms
All antonymsExample
More examples"She was born with underdeveloped lungs, but eventually a few steroid shots set her straight."
Etymology
From sterol + -oid.