vasopressin

noun

va·​so·​pres·​sin ˌvā-zō-ˈpre-sᵊn 

: a polypeptide hormone secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland or obtained synthetically that increases blood pressure and decreases urine flow

called also antidiuretic hormone

Examples of vasopressin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The same oxytocin and vasopressin systems responsible for long-term romantic bonding in monogamous species are also activated in human relationships, with observable effects on neural regions like the anterior cingulate cortex, ventral pallidum and insula. —Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025

Diabetes insipidus is a problem with the kidneys, water balance, and the hormone vasopressin. —Danielle Weiss, Verywell Health, 30 Apr. 2025

Differences: Causes Diabetes insipidus is often caused by problems with a hormone called vasopressin (also known as antidiuretic hormone, or ADH). —Danielle Weiss, Verywell Health, 30 Apr. 2025

Drinking alcohol triggers the hormone vasopressin, which regulates your body’s water and salt levels. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 19 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

from Vasopressin, a trademark

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for vasopressin

• cresson
• lessen
• lesson
• delicatessen

Medical Definition

vasopressin

noun

va·​so·​pres·​sin ˌvā-zō-ˈpres-ᵊn 

: a polypeptide hormone that is secreted together with oxytocin by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, is also obtained synthetically, and increases blood pressure and exerts an antidiuretic effect

called also antidiuretic hormone, beta-hypophamine

see arginine vasopressin, lysine vasopressin, pitressin