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

Unlike acetylcholine, the effects of nicotine last much longer and alters activity throughout the brain. — Hasmeena Kathuria, The Conversation, 22 Sep. 2026

The neurotransmitter acetylcholine works in balance with dopamine – a neurotransmitter produced by the neurons that are lost in Parkinson’s disease. — Mike McRae 10, New Atlas, 10 Sep. 2026

In addition, egg yolks are the top food source of choline, a micronutrient that produces acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that’s responsible for muscle control, memory formation, and mood regulation. — Amber Raiken, Verywell Health, 30 July 2026

Mitochondria supply the raw materials for creating the neurotransmitters glutamate and acetylcholine, which manage our brain, nerves, and muscles. — Rachel Nuwer, Quanta Magazine, 17 July 2026

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
• phosphatidylcholine

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