dopamine

noun

do·​pa·​mine ˈdō-pə-ˌmēn 

: a monoamine C₈H₁₁NO₂ that is a decarboxylated form of dopa and that occurs especially as a neurotransmitter in the brain

Examples of dopamine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Staying in contact can also contribute to the release of dopamine, adversely impacting our ability to detach from an ex emotionally. —Christina Pérez, Vogue, 6 Feb. 2025

Cultures taken from these fungi show behavioural-changing metabolites, including dopamine. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 30 Jan. 2025

Simply imagining that potential reward can lead to the release of dopamine in the brain. —Faith Hill, The Atlantic, 30 Jan. 2025

During the process, the brain also floods with the neurotransmitter dopamine, creating feelings of euphoria and activating the brain’s reward system. —Kaitlin Sullivan, NBC News, 30 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

dopa + amine

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

dopamine

noun

do·​pa·​mine ˈdō-pə-ˌmēn 

: a monoamine C₈H₁₁NO₂ that is a decarboxylated form of dopa and occurs especially as a neurotransmitter in the brain and as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of epinephrine see intropin