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

Cold plunges trigger a rapid surge of stress hormones and neurotransmitters that can sharpen focus, lift mood and help recalibrate the body’s stress response. —Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 30 Apr. 2026

Protein Supports Concentration Your brain relies on a steady supply of amino acids, small compounds that are the building blocks of protein, to produce neurotransmitters. —Kristen Gasnick, Verywell Health, 21 Apr. 2026

These patches don’t contain dopamine — a neurotransmitter (chemical messenger) made primarily in the brain with many important functions in the body, including neurological processes necessary for pleasure, memory, and learning. —Erica Sweeney, EverydayHealth.com, 20 Apr. 2026

The neurons in the substantia nigra produce dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in controlling movement. —Mason Leib, ABC News, 13 Apr. 2026

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