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

Osmond and her sisters have variations on a gene that affects receptors for glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter with many functions throughout the brain. —Shayla Love, New Yorker, 18 Feb. 2026

As a bonus, the exercise itself will in turn generate good feelings by increasing levels of dopamine and serotonin, two mood-enhancing neurotransmitters, that will reinforce the behavior. —Leying Tang, CNN Money, 18 Feb. 2026

The experience of liking seems to be triggered by different neurotransmitters, most likely endorphins and endocannabinoids (the natural equivalents of heroin and cannabis, respectively). —Literary Hub, 13 Feb. 2026

In the brain, glycine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter and affects NMDA receptors, which promote a calming, sleep-friendly state of mind. —Jenna Anderson, Health, 10 Feb. 2026

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