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 Ananda doctors believe that a massage at least every ten days is essential to flush out toxins and stimulate neurotransmitters. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2026

Carb restriction can also affect hormones, digestion, electrolyte balance, and the brain’s neurotransmitters, all of which can contribute to feeling unwell physically and mentally. —Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 16 Mar. 2026

The study adds to the literature showing that alcohol has detrimental effects on synaptic transmission, synaptic function, synaptic plasticity, and overall behavior by altering neurotransmitter release, receptor signaling, and gene expression in the brain. —Christopher Gardner, Hartford Courant, 16 Mar. 2026

Research suggests changes in brain chemistry involving neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine can cause depressive symptoms, says Noorlander. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 14 Mar. 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