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
These include: Benzodiazepines, which work by increasing the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, a neurotransmitter that elicits a calming effect by reducing activity in the nervous system.
—
Ashley Bradford, The Conversation, 10 Jan. 2025
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific body points, stimulating the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters.
—Heather Margonari, Discover Magazine, 28 Nov. 2024
One group causes a general toxicity to cells, enabled by disruption of the cell membrane, while a different subset has the ability to block the receptor for a neurotransmitter.
—Ars Technica, 15 Jan. 2025
These moments can trigger positive emotional responses, enhancing the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which reinforce motivation and collaboration.
—Scott Hutcheson, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for neurotransmitter 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Ashley Bradford, The Conversation, 10 Jan. 2025
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific body points, stimulating the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters.
—Heather Margonari, Discover Magazine, 28 Nov. 2024
One group causes a general toxicity to cells, enabled by disruption of the cell membrane, while a different subset has the ability to block the receptor for a neurotransmitter.
—Ars Technica, 15 Jan. 2025
These moments can trigger positive emotional responses, enhancing the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which reinforce motivation and collaboration.
—Scott Hutcheson, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for neurotransmitter
Dictionary Entries Near neurotransmitter
Cite this Entry
“Neurotransmitter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neurotransmitter. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share