Steroid
(noun)
- A type of organic compound that contains a specific combination of four cycloalkane rings that are joined to each other.
- A type of drug that is derived from or similar to these compounds and that is used for a variety of medical purposes, such as to reduce inflammation and to promote muscle growth.
Origin:
From the greek στερεός (stereós, "solid, stiff") + -oid ("like, resemblin.g")
Examples:
- Steroids are used to treat certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
- Anabolic steroids are used by some athletes and bodybuilders to increase muscle mass and strength.
- Steroids are available only by prescription and are used to treat a variety of medical conditions.
- Steroids can have serious side effects, such as increased risk of heart disease and liver damage.
- Steroids are also used to reduce inflammation in conditions such as asthma and eczema.