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

One theory is that sunlight releases dopamine, which inhibits the eye’s expansion. — Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2026

Meanwhile, my financial strategy is buying high-end gadgets at major discounts for a quick dopamine hit. — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 30 Oct. 2026

Smiling can affect brain chemicals that are associated with positive feelings including endorphins, dopamine and serotonin. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026

The other part of my brain tells me this is just another dopamine hit for Millennial parents who want to throw this content on Instagram so their yuppie friends smash that like button. — Joe Kinsey Outkick, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 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