endorphin

noun

en·​dor·​phin en-ˈdȯr-fən 

: any of a group of endogenous peptides (such as enkephalin) found especially in the brain that bind chiefly to opiate receptors and produce some pharmacological effects (such as pain relief) like those of opiates

specifically : beta-endorphin

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Chewing gives dogs a rush of endorphins, and chomping down on dental chew treats can be especially good for stimulating dogs indoors during particularly bad winter weather. —Claire Thornton, USA TODAY, 13 Dec. 2024

Cognitive health Laughter positively impacts cognitive function by reducing stress hormones like cortisol, which can impair memory and learning, while stimulating the release of endorphins that improve mood and motivation. —Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 11 Dec. 2024

Dancing also promotes the release of endorphins, chemicals that help promote feel-good neurotransmitters (chemicals that allow nerves to communicate) and reduce unpleasant emotions.1 8. —Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 7 Dec. 2024

We’d be horrified and trembling with trauma endorphins. —Ed Herro, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary endogenous + morphine

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing endorphin

• beta-endorphin

Medical Definition

endorphin

noun

en·​dor·​phin en-ˈdȯr-fən 

: any of a group of endogenous peptides (as enkephalin and dynorphin) found especially in the brain that bind chiefly to opiate receptors and produce some of the same pharmacological effects (as pain relief) as those of opiates

specifically : beta-endorphin