acetylcholine

noun

ace·​tyl·​cho·​line ə-ˌse-tᵊl-ˈkō-ˌlēn How to pronounce acetylcholine (audio)
-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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Low acetylcholine: Generally, low acetylcholine is noted with Alzheimer’s disease and can be associated with a decline in memory. Smita Patel, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 2024 Anticholinergic drugs block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) to treat muscle spasms and other health conditions. Mary Choy, Health, 9 Oct. 2024 By focusing on acetylcholine instead of dopamine, Cobenfy may reduce schizophrenia symptoms while avoiding common side effects like weight gain, drowsiness and movement disorders, clinical trials suggest. Dr. Jake Goodman, ABC News, 26 Sep. 2024 Common neurotransmitters include serotonin, epinephrine, dopamine, acetylcholine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Smita Patel, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for acetylcholine 

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Acetylcholin, from Acetyl acetyl + Cholin choline

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of acetylcholine was in 1906

Dictionary Entries Near acetylcholine

Cite this Entry

“Acetylcholine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acetylcholine. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

acetylcholine

noun
ace·​tyl·​cho·​line ə-ˌset-ᵊl-ˈkō-ˌlēn How to pronounce acetylcholine (audio)
-ˌsēt-;
ˈas-ə-ˌtēl-
: a compound released at autonomic nerve endings that functions in carrying nerve impulses

Medical Definition

acetylcholine

noun
: 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 adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on acetylcholine

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