beta-endorphin

noun

be·​ta-en·​dor·​phin ˈbā-tə-en-ˈdȯr-fən How to pronounce beta-endorphin (audio)
: an endorphin of the pituitary gland having a much greater analgesic potency than morphine

Examples of beta-endorphin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Unlike caffeine, nicotine increases beta-endorphins and helps relieve anxiety. Jeffrey A. Singer, National Review, 1 Feb. 2024 Another study shows that changes in the brain's structure raise serotonin, beta-endorphins and other neurotransmitters. Kelly Santana Banks, Discover Magazine, 7 Mar. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'beta-endorphin.' 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

1976, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of beta-endorphin was in 1976

Dictionary Entries Near beta-endorphin

Cite this Entry

“Beta-endorphin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beta-endorphin. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

beta-endorphin

noun
be·​ta-en·​dor·​phin
: an endorphin of the pituitary gland with much greater analgesic potency than morphine that occurs free and as the terminal sequence of 31 amino acids in the polypeptide chain of beta-lipotropin

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