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

The neurotransmitter serotonin, which among other things regulates mood, cognition, and social behavior, is a tryptamine. — Kimon De Greef, Longreads, 4 Aug. 2026

Phospholipids, which take up 30% of the fat and fat-like substances in the yolk, are also essential to neurotransmitter receptor function. — Amber Raiken, Verywell Health, 30 July 2026

The drug works by blocking a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which can help calm the body’s response to allergens. — Andrew Yockey, The Conversation, 24 July 2026

Protein is made up of amino acids, and the body uses it to build muscle and synthesize hormones, enzymes, infection-fighting antibodies, neurotransmitters and more. — Layli Nazarova, Washington Post, 24 July 2026

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