# adrenal

/əˈdɹinəɫ/ (US) · /ɐdɹˈiːnəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/adrenal
Updated: 2026-05-29

## Definition

relating to the small glands in your body that help you deal with stress. These glands release hormones like adrenaline when you are scared or excited.

For teachers: relating to the adrenal glands, which secrete hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Often used in medical or physiological contexts to describe the body's stress response.

## Examples

- The doctor checked my adrenal function during the physical.
- During the high-stress interview, her adrenal system kicked in, causing her heart to race and her palms to sweat.
- Chronic stress can lead to adrenal fatigue, a condition where the body's ability to produce essential hormones like cortisol becomes significantly impaired over time.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.