oxytocin

noun

oxy·​to·​cin ˌäk-si-ˈtō-sᵊn 

: a pituitary octapeptide hormone C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂ that stimulates especially the contraction of uterine muscle and the secretion of milk

Examples of oxytocin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Neurochemistry Of Connection From a psychological perspective, love involves complex neurochemical processes — the release of oxytocin during bonding, the dopamine surges of new attraction, the serotonin fluctuations of romantic obsession. —Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025

The serotonin is from the joy that comes from accomplishment and the oxytocin is from contributing to the greater good. —Andrea Kane, CNN Money, 1 Apr. 2025

Studies in neuroscience suggest that trust fosters an environment where the hormone oxytocin can flourish, helping people feel bonded and collaborative. —Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025

Laughter releases dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins. —Tony Maglio, IndieWire, 11 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

oxytoc(ic) + -in entry 1

Note: According to Science News Letter, vol. 12, no. 341 (October 22, 1927), p. 259, the name was given after pituitary extracts were "obtained in purified form from a single gland by Dr. Oliver Kamm and associates working in the research laboratories of Parke Davis and Company at Detroit."

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for oxytocin

• bosun
• formosan
• mnemosyne
• streptozotocin

Medical Definition

oxytocin

noun

oxy·​to·​cin -ˈtōs-ᵊn 

1

: an octapeptide hormone C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂ secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates especially the contraction of uterine muscle and the secretion of milk

called also alpha-hypophamine

2

: a synthetic version of oxytocin used especially to initiate or increase uterine contractions (as in the induction of labor) see pitocin