serotonin

[ser-uh-toh-nin, seer-]

noun

Biochemistry.

1. a neurotransmitter, derived from tryptophan, that is involved in sleep, depression, memory, and other neurological processes.

serotonin

/ ˌsɛrəˈtəʊnɪn /

noun

1. a compound that occurs in the brain, intestines, and blood platelets and acts as a neurotransmitter, as well as inducing vasoconstriction and contraction of smooth muscle; 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT)

serotonin

1. A monoamine substance that is formed from tryptophan and found in many animal tissues, including the intestine and central nervous system. In the brain, serotonin acts as a neurotransmitter that is involved in the control of pain perception, the sleep-wake cycle, and mood. Serotonin is also produced in some bacteria and plants.

Word History and Origins

Origin of serotonin¹

First recorded in 1945–50; sero- + tone + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of serotonin¹

from _sero- + _ton ( _ic ) + _-in

Example Sentences

Food and Drug Administration is turning its attention to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, a class of antidepressant drugs long criticized by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

From Los Angeles Times

"The evidence for the serotonin theory of depression was weak and inconsistent but the general public thought it wasn't just a theory."

From Salon

Coppen was interested in mood disorders and studied the effect of lithium on major depression and bipolar disorder, and the role of serotonin imbalance as a cause of depression.

From Salon

"Your serotonin levels, which is your feel-good hormone, are boosted and so is your oxytocin level, which is your love and bonding hormone," she says.

From BBC

"When you're having a rough time, especially for me personally, it's a big serotonin boost to not only buy a collectable and keep it, but share the experience with other people as well," she adds.

From BBC