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

The cell loss caused by Parkinson’s results in a lack of dopamine—a key neurotransmitter—in the brain, so many Parkinson’s treatments seek to boost dopamine levels. —Lillian Ali, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 Apr. 2025

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have systematically hacked our brains for quick hits of dopamine, conditioning young people for instant gratification and eroding their patience for challenging cognitive tasks. —Catherine Goetze, Time, 17 Apr. 2025

By increasing the availability of dopamine, Ritalin can improve ADHD symptoms. —New Atlas, 14 Apr. 2025

In contrast, physical activity triggers a more gradual release of dopamine alongside other mood-boosting and stress-busting neurochemicals that ease stress, depression, anxiety and cognitive overload. —Katy Bowman, NPR, 13 Apr. 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