1. steroid(n = noun.substance) - any of several fat-soluble organic compounds having as a basis 17 carbon atoms in four rings; many have important physiological effects;
is a kind of organic compound
has particulars: ketosteroid, steroid alcohol, sterol, bile acid, cardiac glucoside, cardiac glycoside
Derived form adjective steroidal1
2. steroid(n = noun.substance) sex hormone, steroid hormone - any hormone affecting the development and growth of sex organs;
is a kind of endocrine, hormone, internal secretion
has particulars: progestin, progestogen, androgen, androgenic hormone, estrogen, oestrogen, adrenal cortical steroid, corticoid, corticosteroid, anabolic steroid
Derived form adjective steroidal1
steroid, n. Biochem. any of a group of organic compounds with a characteristic structure of four rings of carbon atoms, including many hormones, alkaloids, and vitamins.
Derivative:
steroidal adj.
Etymology:
STEROL + -OID
adrenal cortical steroid, anabolic steroid, steroid alcohol, steroid hormone