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; see origin at dopa, amine

Compare meaning

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

• dopamine vs. serotonin

Example Sentences

Dopamine is a chemical that helps regulate movement but also plays a key role in motivation and reward, which can be overstimulated by these medications.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

Dopamine release also facilitates a neurobiological process called conditioning, which is basically a neural learning process that gives rise to habit formation.

From Salon • Oct. 13, 2025

Dopamine is also known as the "happy hormone" because it is activated when something is pleasurable or we feel rewarded.

From BBC • Jul. 26, 2025

Dopamine encourages reward-seeking behavior by signaling when things are better than expected, creating a 'go' signal.

From Science Daily • Nov. 25, 2024

In 2024, Drag Queen Story Hour founder Michelle Tea will launch Dopamine, an L.A.-based press for queer, indie writers offering tiny fees and total freedom.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2024