serotonin

noun

se·​ro·​to·​nin ˌsir-ə-ˈtō-nən 

ˌser-

: a phenolic amine neurotransmitter C₁₀H₁₂N₂O that is a powerful vasoconstrictor and is found especially in the brain, blood serum, and gastric mucous membrane of mammals

Examples of serotonin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Omega-3 Packed Foods Fatty fish, oysters, and seeds all contain omega-3, which increases serotonin. —Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 17 Jan. 2025

Getting enough vitamin D in your diet could mean more serotonin in the brain. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 17 Jan. 2025

This category includes the depressants Valium, Xanax and Ativan, among others. Antipsychotics, a class of drug that addresses psychosis symptoms in a variety of ways. Antidepressants, which relieve symptoms of depression by affecting neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. —Ashley Bradford, The Conversation, 10 Jan. 2025

Cold Shock Response An icy dip reportedly triggers the release of adrenaline, serotonin, cortisol and dopamine which translate, among other benefits, into boosts for the immune system, improvement of blood circulation, increase of libido and burning of calories. —Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

sero- + ton(ic) entry 2 or tone entry 1 + -in entry 1, probably after angiotonin, earlier name for angiotensin — more at angiotensin

Note: Term introduced by Maurice M. Rapport, Arda Alden Green and Irvine H. Page in "Crystalline serotonin," Science, vol. 108, Issue 2804 (September 24, 1948), pp. 329-330: "The general behavior of the crystalline substance is suggestive of its homogeneity. We would like provisionally to name it serotonin, which indicates that its source is serum and its activity is one of causing constriction."

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing serotonin

• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

Medical Definition

serotonin

noun

se·​ro·​to·​nin ˌsir-ə-ˈtō-nən  ˌser- 

: a phenolic amine neurotransmitter C₁₀H₁₂N₂O that is a powerful vasoconstrictor and is found especially in the brain, blood serum, and gastric mucous membrane of mammals

called also 5-HT, 5-hydroxytryptamine