Definition

1. Noun:
   • The outer layer of the adrenal gland: The 'adrenal cortex' is the external, cortical portion of the adrenal gland, which is situated atop each kidney.
   • An endocrine organ that secretes steroid hormones: This part of the adrenal gland is responsible for producing and secreting crucial hormones, including corticosteroids (like corticosterone and cortisol) and certain sex hormones.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The adrenal cortex is essential for regulating metabolism and the body's response to stress.
  • A tumor in the adrenal cortex can lead to an overproduction of hormones.
  • The doctor explained that the condition was caused by a dysfunction of the adrenal cortex.

Advanced Usage

• "Zones of the adrenal cortex": Refers to its distinct histological layers—the zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and zona reticularis—each responsible for producing different types of hormones.
  • Each zone of the adrenal cortex synthesizes a specific class of steroid hormones.

Variants and Related Words

• Adrenocortical (adj): Pertaining to or derived from the adrenal cortex.
  • Adrenocortical insufficiency is a serious medical condition.
• Corticosteroid (n): Any of the steroid hormones (like cortisol) produced by the adrenal cortex.
  • Synthetic corticosteroids are often used as anti-inflammatory medications.

Synonyms

• Adrenocortical tissue: A more technical term for the substance of the adrenal cortex.
• Cortex of the adrenal gland: A descriptive synonym.

Related Phrases

• Adrenal cortex hormone: A general term for any hormone secreted by this gland part.
  • Aldosterone is a vital adrenal cortex hormone that regulates blood pressure.

Noun

1. the cortex of the adrenal gland; secretes corticosterone and sex hormones