neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌnu̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmi-tər 

-tranz-,

ˌnyu̇r-

: a substance (such as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse

Examples of neurotransmitter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

TCAs, like amitriptyline (Elavil), are primarily used to treat depression but also work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain and spinal cord. —New Atlas, 22 Apr. 2025

Here's What to Avoid What L-tyrosine Supplements Are Used For L-tyrosine is a component of important neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. —Sean Mowbray, Discover Magazine, 22 Apr. 2025

Your fingertips have over 3,000 touch receptors that rapidly change your neurophysiology by releasing a cascade of neurotransmitters. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025

Amino acids have a hand in many bodily processes, such as building and preserving muscle, making hormones and neurotransmitters, boosting the immune system, even maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails. —Andrea Kane, CNN Money, 15 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for neurotransmitter

• babysitter
• bitter
• critter
• fitter
• fritter
• glitter
• hitter
• jitter
• knitter
• litter
• quitter
• ritter

Kids Definition

neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌn(y)u̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmit-ər 

-tranz-

: a substance (as acetylcholine) that carries a nerve impulse from one neuron to another across a synapse

Medical Definition

neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌn(y)u̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmit-ər, -tranz- 

: a substance (as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse see false neurotransmitter