norepinephrine

noun

nor·​epi·​neph·​rine ˈnȯr-ˌe-pə-ˈne-frən 

: a monoamine C₈H₁₁NO₃ that is a neurotransmitter in postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system and in some parts of the central nervous system, is a vasopressor hormone of the adrenal medulla, and is a precursor of epinephrine in its major biosynthetic pathway

Examples of norepinephrine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The fruit fly research by Freeman’s team indicates the next steps in research in vertebrates; in the same Science issue the group reported that norepinephrine changes how astrocytes respond to input from neurons. —Ingrid Wickelgren, Quanta Magazine, 30 Jan. 2026

Tyrosine Tyrosine is an amino acid converted into chemical messengers like dopamine and norepinephrine in your body. —Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 28 Jan. 2026

Specifically, Isaacson wonders about the long-term effects of her medication, a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that is known to raise blood pressure. —The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Jan. 2026

The first chemical is norepinephrine, which prepares the body and brain for action. —Jon Hamilton, NPR, 27 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for norepinephrine

• epinephrine

Kids Definition

norepinephrine

noun

nor·​epi·​neph·​rine ˈnȯ(ə)r-ˌep-ə-ˈnef-rən 

: a hormone that causes blood vessels to contract and helps to transmit nerve impulses in the sympathetic nervous system and in some parts of the central nervous system

Medical Definition

norepinephrine

noun

nor·​epi·​neph·​rine ˌnȯr-ˌep-ə-ˈnef-rən  -rēn 

: a catecholamine C₈H₁₁NO₃ that is the chemical means of transmission across synapses in postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system and in some parts of the central nervous system, is a vasopressor hormone of the adrenal medulla, and is a precursor of epinephrine in its major biosynthetic pathway

called also arterenol, noradrenaline

see levophed