# testosterone

/ˌtɛsˈtɑstɝˌoʊn/ (US) · /tɛstˈɒstəɹˌəʊn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/testosterone
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. the hormone

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

a natural chemical in the body that helps develop muscles, a deep voice, and other male features.

For teachers: a steroid hormone that stimulates the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, produced primarily in the testes.

- The doctor checked his testosterone levels to see why he felt so tired.
- Synthetic testosterone is sometimes prescribed to patients with hormonal deficiencies, though its use must be strictly monitored by a specialist.

Usage: Uncountable in general contexts; countable when referring to specific types or measurements.

### 2. aggressive behavior

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal

behavior that is very aggressive, competitive, or risky, often associated with men.

For teachers: a figurative reference to qualities of aggression, competitiveness, or bravado traditionally associated with masculinity.

- The meeting was full of testosterone, with everyone shouting to prove they were right.
- The locker room was thick with testosterone as the players prepared for the championship final, their adrenaline-fueled shouting echoing off the walls.

Teaching tip: This sense is often used with a slightly negative or critical tone to describe men acting in an overly competitive or foolish way.

## Examples

- The athlete's testosterone levels are checked regularly.
- Doctors may prescribe hormone therapy if a patient's natural production of testosterone falls below a healthy range.
- While primarily associated with physical strength and aggression, testosterone also plays a critical role in bone density and the regulation of mood across all genders.

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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.