dopamine

[doh-puh-meen]

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.

dopamine

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of dopamine¹

First recorded in 1955–60; dopa, amine

Word History and Origins

Origin of dopamine¹

from d ( ihydr ) o ( xy ) p ( henylethyl ) amine

Example Sentences

Studies show that donating to religious or charitable causes literally feels good, because such actions trigger the release of dopamine, endorphins and other “happiness chemicals” in the brain.

From Salon

They’re everywhere and I enjoy the dopamine thrill of feeling outraged and superior as much as the next person.

From Los Angeles Times

"You get the validation, that dopamine hit when people message you and hit you up, it is enjoyable but that is the problem," he says.

From BBC

The drugs work by mimicking the effects of dopamine, a natural chemical that helps transmit messages in the brain, such as those governing movement.

From BBC

Fradiani had supplied that dopamine rush for more than two hours with his virtuoso musical portrayal.

From Los Angeles Times