phenylethylamine

noun

phen·yl·eth·yl·amine ˌfe-nᵊl-ˌe-thəl-ˈa-ˌmēn

ˌfē-

variants or phenethylamine

ˌfen-ˌe-thəl-ˈa-ˌmēn

: a neurotransmitter C₈H₁₁N that is an amine resembling amphetamine in structure and pharmacological properties

also : any of its derivatives

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web N-Phenethyl Dimethylamine Citrate is a close relative of the stimulant phenylethylamine. —

Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 17 Oct. 2022 Chocolate contains a compound called phenylethylamine, which is thought to increase the production of endorphins, the feel-good hormones. —

Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 15 Jan. 2023 Some common prescription medications, like antidepressants, share a similar structural backbone with methamphetamine, called phenylethylamine, which can cause a false positive amphetamine and methamphetamine screen. —

Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Apr. 2022 Tryptophan and phenylethylamine are the compounds responsible for its arousing qualities. —

Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 13 Feb. 2022 Kin is, yes, used as an alcohol-free alternative, but also as a general wellness drink: Many of its key ingredients, such phenylethylamine and rhodiola rosea root extract, improve cognitive function and increase energy levels. —

Elise Taylor, Vogue, 1 Sep. 2021

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'phenylethylamine.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of phenylethylamine was in 1875

See more words from the same year

Dictionary Entries Near phenylethylamine

phenylethyl

phenylethylamine

phenylglycine

See More Nearby Entries

Cite this Entry

Style

“Phenylethylamine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phenylethylamine. Accessed 21 Mar. 2023.

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