serotonin

noun

se·​ro·​to·​nin ˌsir-ə-ˈtō-nən 

ˌser-

: a phenolic amine neurotransmitter C₁₀H₁₂N₂O that is a powerful vasoconstrictor and is found especially in the brain, blood serum, and gastric mucous membrane of mammals

Examples of serotonin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For the last two years, a regular source of serotonin in my life has been watching the latest episode of The Real Housewives of New York City on Peacock each Wednesday. —Emma Specter, Vogue, 2 Dec. 2024

Trauma also changes the brain: the prefrontal cortex malfunctions, impairing decision-making; the hippocampus shrinks, impairing memory and learning; and neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin change, causing mood changes, depression and addiction. —Lipi Roy, Md, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024

Jewelry that's an instant serotonin boost for your wardrobe. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 14 Oct. 2024

It is caused by excess serotonin, usually due to taking medications that increase the effects of serotonin in the body.1 Addiction There are numerous types of addictions to drugs and behaviors. —Smita Patel, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

sero- + ton(ic) entry 2 or tone entry 1 + -in entry 1, probably after angiotonin, earlier name for angiotensin — more at angiotensin

Note: Term introduced by Maurice M. Rapport, Arda Alden Green and Irvine H. Page in "Crystalline serotonin," Science, vol. 108, Issue 2804 (September 24, 1948), pp. 329-330: "The general behavior of the crystalline substance is suggestive of its homogeneity. We would like provisionally to name it serotonin, which indicates that its source is serum and its activity is one of causing constriction."

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing serotonin

• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

Medical Definition

serotonin

noun

se·​ro·​to·​nin ˌsir-ə-ˈtō-nən  ˌser- 

: a phenolic amine neurotransmitter C₁₀H₁₂N₂O that is a powerful vasoconstrictor and is found especially in the brain, blood serum, and gastric mucous membrane of mammals

called also 5-HT, 5-hydroxytryptamine