endorphin
noun
Did you know?
The word endorphin was coined, back when the substances were discovered in the 1970s, by joining pieces of endogenous and morphine, morphine being a narcotic that closely resembles the endorphins and relieves pain in a similar way. Studies suggest that the pain-relieving practice called acupuncture works by releasing endorphins. Endorphins also seem to play an important role in pregnancy. Though much remains to be learned about the endorphins, the general public seems ready to give them credit for any all-natural high.
Examples of endorphin in a Sentence
Lorena Meouchi, Vogue, 19 Mar. 2025
On the flip side, working out—and the release of endorphins—could alleviate pain and menstrual cramps or help with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD.
—Julia Ries, Health, 17 Mar. 2025
The brain needs these hormones to regulate mood and release chemicals in the body called endorphins, which are made in response to stress or pain.
—Anju Goel, Verywell Health, 13 Mar. 2025
Intellectually, Cousins knew laughter was good for the body, producing endorphins, chemicals produced in the brain that act on the same receptors as morphine to mask pain.
—Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 26 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for endorphin
Cite this Entry
“Endorphin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endorphin. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
endorphin
noun
Share