gamma-aminobutyric acid

American  

[gam-uh uh-mee-noh-byoo-tir-ik, -am-uh-noh-] / ˈgæm ə əˌmi noʊ byuˈtɪr ɪk, -ˌæm ə noʊ- /

noun

1. GABA.

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gamma-aminobutyric acid British  

/ ˌɡæməəˌmiːnəuːbjʊˈtɪrɪk /

noun

1. the full name for GABA

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gamma-aminobutyric acid Scientific  

/ găm′ə-ə-mē′nō-byo̅o̅-tîr′ĭk,-ăm′ə- /

1. An amino acid occurring in the brain as a neurotransmitter that acts to inhibit the transmission of nerve impulses. Certain antianxiety drugs, called benzodiazepines, mimic the actions of gamma-aminobutyric acid. Chemical formula: C ₄ H ₉ NO ₂ .

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Etymology

Origin of gamma-aminobutyric acid

First recorded in 1960–65; amino- + butyric acid

Example Sentences

Normal human consciousness is tied to inhibitory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system called gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 9, 2025

The speed of water flow is controlled by water channels called aquaporin channels, which are controlled by a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Within the brain tissue, on the surface of the neurons, he said, are receptors that respond to a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA.

From New York Times • Apr. 9, 2011

Like other benzodiazepines, it acts on the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid, decreasing brain activity and producing a drowsy or calming effect.

From Time Magazine Archive