histamine

noun

his·​ta·​mine ˈhi-stə-ˌmēn  -mən 

: a compound C₅H₉N₃ especially of mammalian tissues that causes dilation of capillaries, contraction of smooth muscle, and stimulation of gastric acid secretion, that is released during allergic reactions, and that is formed by decarboxylation of histidine

Examples of histamine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Studies suggest some children with behavioral challenges like ADHD appear to be sensitive to food dyes, and that genetic variants affecting the body’s ability to break down histamine are a likely cause. —Karen Kaplan, Los Angeles Times, 15 Jan. 2025

Prescription Antihistamines Prescription antihistamines help relieve hives by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical in the body that triggers itching, swelling, and redness. —Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 15 Jan. 2025

As the histamines work to diffuse the allergen, itching and swelling will occur, according to Cleveland Clinic. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 25 July 2024

These medications target histamine receptors that produce the symptoms associated with allergic reactions. —Cari Shane, Health, 6 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary hist- + amine

First Known Use

circa 1913, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

histamine

noun

his·​ta·​mine ˈhis-tə-ˌmēn 

-mən

: a compound that occurs in many animal tissues and plays an important part in allergic reactions (as in hives, asthma, and hay fever)

Medical Definition

histamine

noun

his·​ta·​mine ˈhis-tə-ˌmēn  -mən 

: a compound C₅H₉N₃ especially of mammalian tissues that causes dilatation of capillaries, contraction of smooth muscle, and stimulation of gastric acid secretion, that is released during allergic reactions, and that is formed by decarboxylation of histidine

histaminic

ˌhis-tə-ˈmin-ik 

adjective