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

Harris says that menopausal and perimenopausal women also run a greater risk of developing more serious conditions like sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome (RLS), due in part to the way changes in estrogen and progesterone can weaken throat muscles and reduce dopamine, a key movement regulator. —Emma Loewe, Outside, 1 Jan. 2026

By seemingly changing dopamine signals in the brain, these drugs could reduce cravings and allow the individual to be more rational when faced with tempting options. —Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 30 Dec. 2025

Cue the dopamine receptors; these films are designed to light up the joyful parts of your brain. —Andrew Walsh, Entertainment Weekly, 29 Dec. 2025

And a boost in dopamine levels may help children with ADHD feel more positive about mundane tasks like homework. —Jon Hamilton, NPR, 27 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

dopa + amine

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for dopamine

• acrolein
• adenine
• alkylene
• aniline
• anthracene
• aquiline
• asphaltene
• atlantean
• atrazine
• butadiene
• butylene
• caesarean

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