dopamine

noun

do·​pa·​mine ˈdō-pə-ˌmēn 

: a monoamine C₈H₁₁NO₂ that is a decarboxylated form of dopa and that occurs especially as a neurotransmitter in the brain

Examples of dopamine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In a dopamine cycle, the brain releases the chemical dopamine in response to a rewarding experience, reinforcing the behavior. —Sneha Dhandapani, CNN Money, 6 June 2026

Walking is exercise proven to help ward off anxiety, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s, while improving self-esteem and raising dopamine levels. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 4 June 2026

Walking is exercise proven to help ward off anxiety, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s, while boosting self-esteem and dopamine levels. —Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 4 June 2026

Third, identify the chemical reactions (dopamine, serotonin, cortisol) driving your engagement to break the loop. —Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

dopa + amine

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for dopamine

• acridine
• acrolein
• adenine
• alkylene
• aniline
• anthracene
• aquiline
• asphaltene
• atlantean
• atrazine
• butadiene
• butylene

Medical Definition

dopamine

noun

do·​pa·​mine ˈdō-pə-ˌmēn 

: a monoamine C₈H₁₁NO₂ that is a decarboxylated form of dopa and occurs especially as a neurotransmitter in the brain and as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of epinephrine see intropin