histamine

[ his-tuh-meen, -min ]

/ ˈhɪs təˌmin, -mɪn /

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noun

Biochemistry, Physiology. a heterocyclic amine, C5H9N3, released by mast cells when tissue is injured or in allergic and inflammatory reactions, causing dilation of small blood vessels and smooth muscle contraction.

Pharmacology. a commercial form of this compound, obtained from histidine and used chiefly in the diagnosis of gastric and circulatory functions.

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In the UK, COTTON CANDY is more commonly known as…

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Also his·ta·min

[his-tuh-min]. /ˈhɪs tə mɪn/.

Compare antihistamine.

Origin of histamine

First recorded in 1910–15; hist(idine) + -amine

OTHER WORDS FROM histamine

his·ta·min·ic

[his-tuh-min-ik], /ˌhɪs təˈmɪn ɪk/, adjective

Words nearby histamine

hissy, hissy fit, hist, Histadrut, histaminase, histamine, histamine blocker, histamine headache, histidine, histiocyte, histioid

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use histamine in a sentence

Depending on the cause of a peptic ulcer, your doctor may prescribe different medications—such as proton pump inhibitors, histamine receptor blockers, or protectants—to relieve pain.
The Truth About Common Digestive Health Fears|Stacey Colino|March 14, 2022|Time
People with histamine allergies may even experience headaches, though probably not as severe as the migraines that can be triggered by cogeners, says Bonci.
Red wine is a trifecta of chemicals that can make some people feel terrible|empire|June 24, 2021|Popular-Science

British Dictionary definitions for histamine

histamine

/ (ˈhɪstəˌmiːn, -mɪn) /

noun

an amine formed from histidine and released by the body tissues in allergic reactions, causing irritation. It also stimulates gastric secretions, dilates blood vessels, and contracts smooth muscle. Formula: C 5 H 9 N 3See also antihistamine

Derived forms of histamine

histaminic (ˌhɪstəˈmɪnɪk), adjective

Word Origin for histamine

C20: from hist (idine) + -amine

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Scientific definitions for histamine

histamine

[ hĭs′tə-mēn′ ]

An organic compound found widely in animals and plants that in humans and other mammals is released as part of the body's immune response, causing physiological changes including dilation of the blood vessels, contraction of smooth muscle (as in the airways), and increased gastric acid secretion. The itching and sneezing typical of respiratory allergies are caused by the release of histamine. Chemical formula: C5H9N3