vasopressor

[ vas-oh-pres-er, vey-zoh- ]

noun

, Biochemistry, Pharmacology.

1. a hormone, as epinephrine, or other agent that raises the blood pressure by causing contraction of the arteriole muscles, narrowing the arteriole passage.

vasopressor

/ ˌveɪzəʊˈprɛsə /

adjective

1. causing an increase in blood pressure by constricting the arteries

noun

1. a substance that has such an effect

Word History and Origins

Origin of vasopressor¹

First recorded in 1925–30; vaso- + pressor