acetylcholine

noun

ace·​tyl·​cho·​line ə-ˌse-tᵊl-ˈkō-ˌlēn 

-ˌsē-;

ˈa-sə-ˌtēl-

: a neurotransmitter [C₇H₁₆NO₂]⁺ released at autonomic synapses and neuromuscular junctions and formed enzymatically in the tissues from choline

Examples of acetylcholine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The pairing of dopamine and acetylcholine is the crux of the study. —Elana Spivack, Popular Science, 19 Mar. 2025

In addition to dopamine’s role, the researchers also identified acetylcholine as another important chemical messenger in the process. —Jenny Lehmann, Discover Magazine, 27 Mar. 2025

Even while a person is taking these medications, Alzheimer’s will continue impacting the brain’s nerve cells and acetylcholine levels, making the drugs less effective over time. —Alisa Hrustic, SELF, 24 Mar. 2025

This desensitization could impair the receptors’ ability to respond to acetylcholine and other signals, complicating the condition rather than alleviating it. —Asmae Fahmy, Verywell Health, 6 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Acetylcholin, from Acetyl acetyl + Cholin choline

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for acetylcholine

• succinylcholine
• methacholine
• phosphatidylcholine
• quinoline

Kids Definition

acetylcholine

noun

ace·​tyl·​cho·​line ə-ˌset-ᵊl-ˈkō-ˌlēn 

-ˌsēt-;

ˈas-ə-ˌtēl-

: a compound released at autonomic nerve endings that functions in carrying nerve impulses

Medical Definition

acetylcholine

noun

ace·​tyl·​cho·​line ə-ˌset-ᵊl-ˈkō-ˌlēn  -ˌsēt-; ˌas-ə-ˌtēl- 

: a neurotransmitter [C₇H₁₆NO₂]⁺ released at autonomic synapses and neuromuscular junctions, active in the transmission of nerve impulses, and formed enzymatically in the tissues from choline

acetylcholinic

-kō-ˈlin-ik 

adjective