gamma-aminobutyric acid

noun

gam·​ma-ami·​no·​bu·​tyr·​ic acid ˌga-mə-ə-ˌmē-(ˌ)nō-byü-ˈtir-ik- 

ˌga-mə-ˌa-mə-(ˌ)nō-

: an amino acid C₄H₉NO₂ that is a neurotransmitter which induces inhibition of postsynaptic neurons

Examples of gamma-aminobutyric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Benzodiazepines have been prescribed to treat severe anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders as well as seizures since the 1960s—the drug tells your brain to release a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which calms your body and mind, as well as sometimes results in drowsiness. —Cristina Tudino, Vogue, 21 Mar. 2025

Drinking floods the brain with the neurotransmitter (brain chemical) gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which contributes to feelings of short-term relaxation. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 19 Mar. 2025

Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows brain activity. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 14 Mar. 2025

These include: Benzodiazepines, which work by increasing the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, a neurotransmitter that elicits a calming effect by reducing activity in the nervous system. —Ashley Bradford, The Conversation, 10 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for gamma-aminobutyric acid

• antacid
• placid

Medical Definition

gamma-aminobutyric acid

noun

gam·​ma-ami·​no·​bu·​tyr·​ic acid

variants also γ-aminobutyric acid

ˌgam-ə-ə-ˌmē-(ˌ)nō-byü-ˌtir-ik-, ˌgam-ə-ˌam-ə-(ˌ)nō- 

: an amino acid C₄H₉NO₂ that is a neurotransmitter that induces inhibition of postsynaptic neurons

called also GABA