nitric oxide

noun

: a colorless poisonous gas NO formed by oxidation of nitrogen or ammonia that is present in the atmosphere and also in mammals where it is synthesized from arginine and oxygen and acts as a vasodilator and as a mediator of cell-to-cell communication (as between nerve cells) compare nitrous oxide

Examples of nitric oxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

His own research has helped show that even tiny amounts of hemoglobin outside a red cell can cause immense damage by scavenging nitric oxide. —Nicola Twilley, The New Yorker, 3 Feb. 2025

This can increase nitric oxide production, improving blood flow and muscle oxygen delivery.7 Nitric oxide also regulates various functions of skeletal muscles, including muscle contraction and repair. —Lindsey Desoto, Rd, Ld, Verywell Health, 29 Jan. 2025

Garlic consumption may help the body make and release nitric oxide, aiding in processes that protect against viral illness.4 10. —Cathy Nelson, Verywell Health, 18 Dec. 2024

Scientists have homed in on bioactive plant compounds found in cocoa beans, called flavanols, which have been shown to prompt production of nitric oxide in the body. —Allison Aubrey, NPR, 5 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1789, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

nitric oxide

noun

: a poisonous colorless gas NO that occurs as a common air pollutant formed by the oxidation of atmospheric nitrogen and that is also formed by the oxidation of arginine in the mammalian body where it acts as a mediator of intracellular and intercellular communication regulating numerous biological processes (as vasodilation and neurotransmission)