dopamine

American  

[doh-puh-meen] / ˈdoʊ pəˌmin /

noun

1. Biochemistry. a catecholamine neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, retina, and sympathetic ganglia, acting within the brain to help regulate movement and emotion: its depletion may cause Parkinson's disease.

2. Pharmacology. a dopamine preparation used to increase the force of contraction of the heart in the treatment of shock.

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dopamine British  

/ ˈdɒpəmɪn /

noun

1. a chemical found in the brain that acts as a neurotransmitter and is an intermediate compound in the synthesis of noradrenaline. Formula: (HO) 2 C 6 H 3 (CH 2 ) 2 NH 2

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Etymology

Origin of dopamine

First recorded in 1955–60; dopa, amine

Compare meaning

How does dopamine compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• dopamine vs. serotonin

Example Sentences

It has become an entry point for young Americans seeking quick dopamine, packaged as entertainment but functioning as a behavioral trap.

From The Wall Street Journal

Henwick says she also tried to "get rid of fast dopamine hits" by putting time limits on her social media apps.

From BBC

Tyrosine is especially notable because it helps produce neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which influence mood, motivation, and cognitive performance.

From Science Daily

The condition is closely linked to a drop in dopamine levels in the brain.

From Science Daily

But it didn’t take long for one hit of dopamine to turn into another—and another.

From The Wall Street Journal