oxytocin

noun

oxy·​to·​cin ˌäk-si-ˈtō-sᵊn 

: a pituitary octapeptide hormone C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂ that stimulates especially the contraction of uterine muscle and the secretion of milk

Examples of oxytocin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Acupressure works by promoting the release of oxytocin and endorphins, neurotransmitters help reduce pain and put you in a more blissful state. —Beatrice Zocchi, Vogue, 17 June 2024

Both basic and life-saving drugs are in short supply, from oxytocin and chemotherapy medications to prescriptions for to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications. —Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY, 18 Apr. 2024

One study also suggested foster mothers experience similar oxytocin changes as gestational mothers when bonding with their babies. —Jamie Friedlander Serrano, TIME, 15 May 2024

In recent years, Professor Young was exploring whether increasing oxytocin in certain conditions would help children with autism who struggle in social interactions. —Michael S. Rosenwald, New York Times, 2 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

oxytoc(ic) + -in entry 1

Note: According to Science News Letter, vol. 12, no. 341 (October 22, 1927), p. 259, the name was given after pituitary extracts were "obtained in purified form from a single gland by Dr. Oliver Kamm and associates working in the research laboratories of Parke Davis and Company at Detroit."

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

oxytocin

noun

oxy·​to·​cin -ˈtōs-ᵊn 

1

: an octapeptide hormone C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂ secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates especially the contraction of uterine muscle and the secretion of milk

called also alpha-hypophamine

2

: a synthetic version of oxytocin used especially to initiate or increase uterine contractions (as in the induction of labor) see pitocin