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neurotransmitter
noun
neu·ro·trans·mit·ter
ˌnu̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmi-tər
-tranz-,
ˌnyu̇r-
: a substance (such as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse
Examples of neurotransmitter in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Every minute or so during non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, the brain releases a wave of norepinephrine, a hormone that is one of the brain’s primary neurotransmitters.
—
Tom Hawking, Popular Science, 8 Jan. 2025
When we are rewarded for compliant behavior, our brain rewards us with a hit of dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure.
—
Dr. Sunita Sah, TIME, 4 Jan. 2025
Additionally, magnesium is also necessary for GABA synthesis, a neurotransmitter that reduces the activity of the central nervous system and induces a state of calm.
—
Ana Morales, Vogue, 5 Dec. 2024
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
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Word History
First Known Use
1961, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near neurotransmitter
Cite this Entry
“Neurotransmitter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neurotransmitter. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
neurotransmitter
noun
neu·ro·trans·mit·ter
ˌn(y)u̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmit-ər
-tranz-
: a substance (as acetylcholine) that carries a nerve impulse from one neuron to another across a synapse
Medical Definition
neurotransmitter
noun
neu·ro·trans·mit·ter
ˌn(y)u̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmit-ər, -tranz-
: a substance (as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse see false neurotransmitter
More from Merriam-Webster on neurotransmitter
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about neurotransmitter
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