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melatonin


mel·a·to·nin

noun \ˌme-lə-ˈtō-nən\

Definition of MELATONIN

: a vertebrate hormone that is derived from serotonin, is secreted by the pineal gland especially in response to darkness, and has been linked to the regulation of circadian rhythms

Origin of MELATONIN

Greek melas black + -tonin (as in serotonin)
First Known Use: 1958

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