nitric oxide

noun

: a colorless poisonous gas NO formed by oxidation of nitrogen or ammonia that is present in the atmosphere and also in mammals where it is synthesized from arginine and oxygen and acts as a vasodilator and as a mediator of cell-to-cell communication (as between nerve cells) compare nitrous oxide

Examples of nitric oxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This high-quality product contains an amino acid that plays a critical role in the production of nitric oxide, which helps to promote blood flow, energy levels and overall well-being. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024 The Peregrine lander's propulsion system uses a hypergolic propellant mixture, combining hydrazine fuel and a solution of nitric oxide and nitrogen tetroxide as the oxidizer. Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 8 Jan. 2024 This supplement is designed to increase blood flow by unleashing the power of nitric oxide, a natural molecule that helps to relax the arteries and increase blood flow to the body's tissues and organs. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 26 Oct. 2023 Most nitric oxide supplements don’t actually contain nitric oxide. Erica Sweeney, Men's Health, 25 Jan. 2023 Unlike traditional medications that rely on chemicals, this alternative uses natural ingredients like L-arginine, an amino acid that stimulates nitric oxide synthesis. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 26 Oct. 2023 The endothelial cells release nitric oxide, which helps widen the blood vessels. Amber Sayer, Health, 25 Sep. 2023 Through a series of experiments, Dr. Murad discovered that nitroglycerin releases nitric oxide, which relaxes smooth muscle cells. Michael S. Rosenwald, Washington Post, 11 Sep. 2023 The review summarizes some interesting evidence that breathing through your nose generates higher levels of nitric oxide, which in turns dilates blood vessels and potentially helps keep airways relaxed and open. Alex Hutchinson, Outside Online, 10 Apr. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'nitric oxide.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1789, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nitric oxide was in 1789

Dictionary Entries Near nitric oxide

Cite this Entry

“Nitric oxide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nitric%20oxide. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

nitric oxide

noun
: a poisonous colorless gas NO that occurs as a common air pollutant formed by the oxidation of atmospheric nitrogen and that is also formed by the oxidation of arginine in the mammalian body where it acts as a mediator of intracellular and intercellular communication regulating numerous biological processes (as vasodilation and neurotransmission)

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