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

The Wand Wine Filter 8-Pack This wine purifier wand removes histamines and sulfites from red and white wine—the ultimate gift for any wine enthusiast! —Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 21 Nov. 2024

Antihistamines Antihistamines reduce the itchiness and inflammation produced by histamine, a chemical your immune cells release when triggered by an allergen. —Nina Agrawal, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Apr. 2024

Some evidence suggests that mast cells (a type of immune cell) release histamine when they're activated. —Samantha Lauriello, Health, 26 May 2024

Dry, itchy skin can sometimes be associated with overactive histamines, and suggests taking a daily antihistamine until the condition has resolved. —Kelsey Eisen, Allure, 28 Oct. 2024

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