oxytocin

American  

[ok-si-toh-suhn] / ˌɒk sɪˈtoʊ sən /

noun

1. Biochemistry. a polypeptide hormone, produced by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, that stimulates contraction of the smooth muscle of the uterus.

2. Pharmacology. a commercial form of this substance, obtained from beef and hog pituitary glands or especially by synthesis, and used chiefly in obstetrics to induce labor and to control postnatal hemorrhage.

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oxytocin British  

/ ˌɒksɪˈtəʊsɪn /

noun

1. a polypeptide hormone, secreted by the pituitary gland, that stimulates contractions of the uterus or oviduct and ejection of milk in mammals; alphahypophame: used therapeutically for aiding childbirth. Formula: C 43 H 68 N 12 O 12 S 2 Compare vasopressin

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oxytocin Scientific  

/ ŏk′sĭ-tō′sĭn /

1. A polypeptide hormone secreted by the posterior portion of the pituitary gland. Oxytocin stimulates the contraction of smooth muscle of the uterus during childbirth and facilitates ejection of milk from the mammary glands.

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Etymology

Origin of oxytocin

First recorded in 1925–30; oxytoc(ic) + -in ²

Example Sentences

At the same time, warm touch is associated with oxytocin release and lower stress levels, which strengthen social bonds and reinforce bodily self-awareness.

From Science Daily

One group was given oxytocin nose spray and asked to complete a “partner appreciation task,” or PAT, consisting of a 10-minute mutual-appreciation session.

From The Wall Street Journal

Combining low doses of the drug tirzepatide, a "dual agonist" that works, in part, by activating GLP-1 receptors, with the hormone oxytocin results in weight loss without gastrointestinal side effects in obese rats.

From Science Daily

“Techno can promote oxytocin and boost endorphins. It can encourage joy and play and really support brain development, emotional regulation and really enhance the parent-child bond as well.”

From Los Angeles Times

"Your serotonin levels, which is your feel-good hormone, are boosted and so is your oxytocin level, which is your love and bonding hormone," she says.

From BBC