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

Many people don’t realize that 90 to 95% of our serotonin and serotonin receptors are in the gut itself. —Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 28 Oct. 2024

For example, 174 hertz (Hz) relieves pain and stress, while 40 Hz increases focus and memory and 528 Hz lowers stress as well as increases serotonin and dopamine. —Lisa Kocay, Forbes, 26 Oct. 2024

The exact cause of PMDD is unknown, but it may be linked to an abnormal reaction to the natural rise and fall of estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle that causes a serotonin deficiency in the brain. —Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY, 10 Oct. 2024

In fact, research shows that healthy social interactions prompt your brain to release feel-good chemicals oxytocin, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. —Amy Marturana Winderl, SELF, 25 July 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