endorphins

Cultural  

1. Substances produced by the brain that have painkilling and tranquillizing effects on the body. Endorphins are thought to be similar to morphine and are usually released by the brain during times of extreme body stress. The release of endorphins may explain why trauma victims sometimes cannot feel the pain associated with their injuries.

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Example Sentences

Researchers in the late 1970s found that after patients had their molars extracted, an IV saline drip provided pain relief through the body’s natural ability to produce endorphins.

From Slate • Jan. 30, 2026

Cardio is not just good for my heart, but is a great emotional release and gets my endorphins going.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 5, 2026

We have a little home gym, and I do a 20-minute, brutal, fast-paced blast on the elliptical machine to make sure I get my endorphins up and my cardiovascular system going.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2025

With gyms shut during lockdown, Tia said she lost the endorphins she would get from exercise and tried to regain control with food.

From BBC • Mar. 15, 2025

But my endorphins were surging and that, combined with the huge sense of relief, left me totally giddy.

From "If I Stay" by Gayle Forman