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

To explain its wondrous potency, scientists noted that when tryptophan made its way into the brain, it could be converted into the neurotransmitter serotonin. —Daniel Engber, The Atlantic, 26 Nov. 2025

The neurons in the substantia nigra produce dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in controlling movement. —Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 25 Nov. 2025

The massage can also lower your levels of cortisol (the body’s primary stress hormone) while increasing serotonin and dopamine, the neurotransmitters linked to well-being and mood balance. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 13 Nov. 2025

Neurons rely on endocytosis, the recycling of tiny vesicles that carry neurotransmitters. —New Atlas, 8 Nov. 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