endorphin

noun

en·​dor·​phin en-ˈdȯr-fən 

: any of a group of endogenous peptides (such as enkephalin) found especially in the brain that bind chiefly to opiate receptors and produce some pharmacological effects (such as pain relief) like those of opiates

specifically : beta-endorphin

Did you know?

The word endorphin was coined, back when the substances were discovered in the 1970s, by joining pieces of endogenous and morphine, morphine being a narcotic that closely resembles the endorphins and relieves pain in a similar way. Studies suggest that the pain-relieving practice called acupuncture works by releasing endorphins. Endorphins also seem to play an important role in pregnancy. Though much remains to be learned about the endorphins, the general public seems ready to give them credit for any all-natural high.

Examples of endorphin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Physical activity boosts endorphins, improves energy, and helps reduce the sluggishness that SAD often brings. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 17 Dec. 2024

Physical activity reduces stress hormones while boosting endorphins, which improves feelings of well-being. —Katia Hetter, CNN, 12 Dec. 2024

Laughter releases these endorphins in your brain, which create new pathways for serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine, which are key chemicals in your brain that contribute to feeling happy. —William Vanderbloemen, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024

Physical activity promotes endorphins that boost mood while tired muscles lose their tension. —Sandee Lamotte, CNN, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary endogenous + morphine

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing endorphin

• beta-endorphin

Medical Definition

endorphin

noun

en·​dor·​phin en-ˈdȯr-fən 

: any of a group of endogenous peptides (as enkephalin and dynorphin) found especially in the brain that bind chiefly to opiate receptors and produce some of the same pharmacological effects (as pain relief) as those of opiates

specifically : beta-endorphin