: any of a class of antidepressants (such as fluoxetine) that inhibit the inactivation of serotonin by blocking its reuptake by presynaptic neuron endings

called also selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

Examples of SSRI 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.
Some panelists also called for stronger warnings on SSRI drug labels. Aria Bendix, NBC news, 24 Feb. 2026 Feuer has had patients and their families thank her for prescribing an SSRI. Rhitu Chatterjee, NPR, 7 May 2026 It hasn’t been confirmed whether or not the shooter, who turned the gun on himself after the murders, was on an SSRI. Cara Lynn Shultz, People.com, 29 Aug. 2025 In the case of some drugs like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, the medications may change the levels of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, in the brain, which can affect dreams and nightmares. Stacey Colino, Time, 3 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for SSRI

Word History

First Known Use

1991, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of SSRI was in 1991

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Cite this Entry

“SSRI.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/SSRI. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

: any of a class of antidepressants (as fluoxetine or sertraline) that inhibit the inactivation of serotonin by blocking its reuptake by presynaptic nerve cell endings

called also selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

compare snri
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