neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌnu̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmi-tər 

-tranz-,

ˌnyu̇r-

: a substance (such as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse

Examples of neurotransmitter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The analysis suggested that citrus is positively associated with a type of bacteria in the gut vital for the synthesis of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine — two chemicals in the body linked with improved mood. —Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 28 Feb. 2025

These include the production of neurotransmitters, which can lead to improved mood and cognitive function support. —Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 7 Jan. 2025

Research shows that taking omega-3 supplements may reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by supporting the production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters (chemical messengers), including dopamine and serotonin. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 13 Dec. 2024

Dopamine is a crucial neurotransmitter involved in our brain’s reward system. —Andrea Kane, CNN, 12 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for neurotransmitter

• babysitter
• bitter
• critter
• fitter
• fritter
• glitter
• hitter
• jitter
• knitter
• litter
• quitter
• ritter

Kids Definition

neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌn(y)u̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmit-ər 

-tranz-

: a substance (as acetylcholine) that carries a nerve impulse from one neuron to another across a synapse

Medical Definition

neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌn(y)u̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmit-ər, -tranz- 

: a substance (as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse see false neurotransmitter