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

Nicotine dependence alters brain chemistry by stimulating neurotransmitters like dopamine that govern mood and pleasure, according to Cleveland Clinic. — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 24 Sep. 2026

Movement research has long shown that even brief bursts increase circulation and prompt the release of dopamine and serotonin, which is the neurochemistry behind why a five-minute walk or stretch break shifts mood. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 22 Sep. 2026

Activation of these receptors also influences the release of other neurotransmitters, including dopamine, which plays an important role in reward and reinforcement. — Hasmeena Kathuria, The Conversation, 22 Sep. 2026

Even short bursts increase circulation, signal safety to the nervous system and prompt the release of dopamine and serotonin. — Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 22 Sep. 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