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

They’re packed with tyramine and histamines, which interfere with melatonin production—your body’s natural sleep hormone. —Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024

Antihistamines block histamines, which are released by the immune system and can cause symptoms associated with allergies.5 5. —Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 2 Dec. 2024

Varietals like Merlot and Shiraz are made by fermenting grapes and their skin, which contains high levels of flavonoids and histamines. —Cheyenne Buckingham, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Nov. 2024

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

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