gamma-aminobutyric acid

noun

gam·​ma-ami·​no·​bu·​tyr·​ic acid ˌga-mə-ə-ˌmē-(ˌ)nō-byü-ˈtir-ik- How to pronounce gamma-aminobutyric acid (audio)
ˌga-mə-ˌa-mə-(ˌ)nō-
: an amino acid C4H9NO2 that is a neurotransmitter which induces inhibition of postsynaptic neurons

Examples of gamma-aminobutyric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Research suggests that ashwagandha may enhance sleep by reducing stress and promoting the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter (chemical messenger) that plays a role in relaxation. Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 28 Apr. 2025 Benzodiazepines have been prescribed to treat severe anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders as well as seizures since the 1960s—the drug tells your brain to release a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which calms your body and mind, as well as sometimes results in drowsiness. Cristina Tudino, Vogue, 21 Mar. 2025 Drinking floods the brain with the neurotransmitter (brain chemical) gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which contributes to feelings of short-term relaxation. Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 19 Mar. 2025 Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows brain activity. Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for gamma-aminobutyric acid

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gamma-aminobutyric acid was in 1900

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gamma-aminobutyric acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gamma-aminobutyric%20acid. Accessed 6 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

gamma-aminobutyric acid

noun
gam·​ma-ami·​no·​bu·​tyr·​ic acid
: an amino acid C4H9NO2 that is a neurotransmitter that induces inhibition of postsynaptic neurons

called also GABA

More from Merriam-Webster on gamma-aminobutyric acid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!