dopamine

noun

do·​pa·​mine ˈdō-pə-ˌmēn How to pronounce dopamine (audio)
: a monoamine C8H11NO2 that is a decarboxylated form of dopa and that occurs especially as a neurotransmitter in the brain

Examples of dopamine 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.
People are rebelling against the constant connection and dopamine distraction that smartphones can bring. — Anthony Karcz, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026 Swimming also reduces stress as rhythmic breathing and movement trigger the release of brain chemicals such as endorphins and dopamine, which produce a sense of euphoria and well-being. — Michael McColly, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2026 This postpartum depression became the condition under which which her addiction escalated, as Panettiere described needing a rush dopamine or something else to break through the numbness. — Martha Ross, Mercury News, 17 Aug. 2026 Trafford suspects the next new signing at Leeds will generate the same kind of excitement, the next dopamine hit. — Beren Cross, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dopamine

Word History

Etymology

dopa + amine

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dopamine was in 1959

Rhymes for dopamine

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Browse Nearby Words

dopa
dopamine
dopaminergic
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Cite this Entry

“Dopamine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dopamine. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

dopamine

noun
do·​pa·​mine ˈdō-pə-ˌmēn How to pronounce dopamine (audio)
: a monoamine C8H11NO2 that is a decarboxylated form of dopa and occurs especially as a neurotransmitter in the brain and as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of epinephrine see intropin

More from Merriam-Webster on dopamine

Nglish: Translation of dopamine for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about dopamine

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