dopamine

noun

do·​pa·​mine ˈdō-pə-ˌmēn How to pronounce dopamine (audio)
: 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
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Supports Mental Health Current evidence suggests that saffron's compounds crocin and safranal may help increase mood-boosting chemicals (such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) in the brain. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 8 Oct. 2025 While the cause of RLS remains unknown, evidence suggests that it might be related to a problem with the neurotransmitter dopamine. Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Oct. 2025 The mineral raises the release of serotonin and dopamine, two hormones that affect mood and well-being. Kirstyn Hill, Health, 1 Oct. 2025 The researchers then added chemical sensors that could detect ions, such as sodium, and neurotransmitters like dopamine. New Atlas, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dopamine

Word History

Etymology

dopa + amine

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dopamine was in 1959

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Cite this Entry

“Dopamine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dopamine. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

Medical Definition

dopamine

noun
do·​pa·​mine ˈdō-pə-ˌmēn How to pronounce dopamine (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on dopamine

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