endorphin

noun

en·​dor·​phin en-ˈdȯr-fən How to pronounce endorphin (audio)
: any of a group of endogenous peptides (such as enkephalin) found especially in the brain that bind chiefly to opiate receptors and produce some pharmacological effects (such as pain relief) like those of opiates
specifically : beta-endorphin

Did you know?

The word endorphin was coined, back when the substances were discovered in the 1970s, by joining pieces of endogenous and morphine, morphine being a narcotic that closely resembles the endorphins and relieves pain in a similar way. Studies suggest that the pain-relieving practice called acupuncture works by releasing endorphins. Endorphins also seem to play an important role in pregnancy. Though much remains to be learned about the endorphins, the general public seems ready to give them credit for any all-natural high.

Examples of endorphin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In your quest for a six-pack, all that exercise is releasing feel-good endorphins, improving brain health, and reducing cortisol levels while also improving body image—a major self-confidence booster. Adam Morganstern, Robb Report, 2 Mar. 2024 Acknowledge Change Fatigue The endorphin hit that comes from completing a new system roll-out is real, but so is the crash. Sherzod Odilov, Forbes, 14 Feb. 2024 But while a new pair of kicks is enough to give any experienced runner an endorphin rush, the stiff midsole shoe might be a letdown for runners who are looking for lots of bounce and fast-running capabilities. Sarah Kester, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2024 Advertisement For those brave souls who want to boost their endorphins beyond a runner’s high, there is an optional cold plunge during the warmer months. Pamela Chelin, Los Angeles Times, 20 Dec. 2023 The shock factor of contrast-therapy also increases endorphins, elevating your mood. Livia Hengel, Forbes, 12 Feb. 2024 Move your body: Pumping endorphins is the best way to naturally increase dopamine in the body and fight feelings of stress and anxiety. Detroit Free Press, 13 Jan. 2024 End result: Blood sugar levels off, at the same time endorphins are boosted. Lorena Meouchi, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2023 Particularly during the winter months, when much of the country is shoveling snow and scraping ice, the best things to do in Florida incorporate clear blue skies, wide and welcoming beaches, and a steady drip of Vitamin D that packs a powerful endorphin punch. Terry Ward, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'endorphin.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary endogenous + morphine

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of endorphin was in 1976

Dictionary Entries Near endorphin

Cite this Entry

“Endorphin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endorphin. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

endorphin

noun
en·​dor·​phin en-ˈdȯr-fən How to pronounce endorphin (audio)
: any of a group of endogenous peptides (as enkephalin and dynorphin) found especially in the brain that bind chiefly to opiate receptors and produce some of the same pharmacological effects (as pain relief) as those of opiates
specifically : beta-endorphin

More from Merriam-Webster on endorphin

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