steroid

steroid definition - medical

ster·oid (stĕrˈoidˌ, stîrˈ-)

noun
Any of numerous naturally occurring or synthetic fat-soluble organic compounds having as a basis 17 carbon atoms arranged in four rings and including the sterols and bile acids, adrenocortical and sex hormones, certain natural drugs such as digitalis compounds, and the precursors of certain vitamins. Also called steroid hormone.
adjective or ste·roid·al (stĭ-roidˈl, stĕ-)
Relating to or characteristic of steroids or steroid hormones.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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