neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌnu̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmi-tər 

-tranz-, 

ˌnyu̇r-

: a substance (such as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse

Examples of neurotransmitter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The serum’s star ingredient is a proprietary 4-CLGN complex that combines hydrating beta-glucan with signaling and neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides. —Kathleen Baird-Murray, Vogue, 6 Jan. 2026

Choline is an essential nutrient that plays a key role in fetal growth and development, supports cell structure and function, and is needed to produce neurotransmitters. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 6 Jan. 2026

Because serotonin is the neurotransmitter that fuels feelings of happiness, having less of it can contribute to low mood. —Marisa McMillan, Outside, 20 Dec. 2025

That’s because your brain depends on amino acids to make neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, the chemical messengers that regulate mood, motivation, and alertness. —Lauryn Higgins, Time, 18 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for neurotransmitter

• babysitter
• bitter
• critter
• fitter
• fritter
• glitter
• hitter
• jitter
• knitter
• litter
• quitter
• ritter

Kids Definition

neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌn(y)u̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmit-ər 

-tranz-

: a substance (as acetylcholine) that carries a nerve impulse from one neuron to another across a synapse

Medical Definition

neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌn(y)u̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmit-ər, -tranz- 

: a substance (as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse see false neurotransmitter