neurotransmitter

noun

neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌnu̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmi-tər How to pronounce neurotransmitter (audio)
-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
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.
Nerves release a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which binds to the receptor and tells muscles to contract. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026 These swings impact the brain’s neurotransmitters and stress systems in a way that makes emotional regulation harder. — Simone Sauter, Parents, 30 May 2026 The dual hormone/neurotransmitter helps to regulate your stress levels, slow your heart rate, and allows a feeling of safety and contentment to wash over you. — Laura Kiniry, Popular Science, 17 June 2026 Lean Proteins Protein provides amino acids that help build hormones and neurotransmitters involved in the body's stress response. — Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for neurotransmitter

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of neurotransmitter was in 1961

Rhymes for neurotransmitter

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Browse Nearby Words

neurotransmission
neurotransmitter
neurotropic
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Cite this Entry

“Neurotransmitter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neurotransmitter. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

neurotransmitter

noun
neu·​ro·​trans·​mit·​ter ˌn(y)u̇r-ō-tran(t)s-ˈmit-ər How to pronounce neurotransmitter (audio)
-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- How to pronounce neurotransmitter (audio)
: a substance (as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse see false neurotransmitter

More from Merriam-Webster on neurotransmitter

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about neurotransmitter

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