phenylethylamine

noun

phen·​yl·​eth·​yl·​amine ˌfe-nᵊl-ˌe-thəl-ˈa-ˌmēn 

ˌfē-

variants or phenethylamine

ˌfen-ˌe-thəl-ˈa-ˌmēn 

: a neurotransmitter C₈H₁₁N that is an amine resembling amphetamine in structure and pharmacological properties

also : any of its derivatives

Examples of phenylethylamine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

N-Phenethyl Dimethylamine Citrate is a close relative of the stimulant phenylethylamine. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 17 Oct. 2022

Chocolate contains a compound called phenylethylamine, which is thought to increase the production of endorphins, the feel-good hormones. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 15 Jan. 2023

Some common prescription medications, like antidepressants, share a similar structural backbone with methamphetamine, called phenylethylamine, which can cause a false positive amphetamine and methamphetamine screen. —Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Apr. 2022

Tryptophan and phenylethylamine are the compounds responsible for its arousing qualities. —Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 13 Feb. 2022

Kin is, yes, used as an alcohol-free alternative, but also as a general wellness drink: Many of its key ingredients, such phenylethylamine and rhodiola rosea root extract, improve cognitive function and increase energy levels. —Elise Taylor, Vogue, 1 Sep. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

phenylethylamine

noun

phe·​nyl·​eth·​yl·​amine ˌfen-ᵊl-ˌeth-əl-ˈam-ˌēn, ˌfēn- 

variants or phenethylamine

ˌfen-ˌeth-əl-ˈam-ˌēn 

: a neurotransmitter C₈H₁₁N that is an amine resembling amphetamine in structure and pharmacological properties

also : any of various derivatives of phenylethylamine