serotonin

noun

se·​ro·​to·​nin ˌsir-ə-ˈtō-nən How to pronounce serotonin (audio)
ˌser-
: a phenolic amine neurotransmitter C10H12N2O that is a powerful vasoconstrictor and is found especially in the brain, blood serum, and gastric mucous membrane of mammals

Examples of serotonin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For You While more research is needed, current studies suggest that kiwi may support better sleep due to its serotonin, melatonin, and antioxidant properties. Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 17 Mar. 2025 One theory is that changes in a person's gut microbiome (a collection of microorganisms that live in the gut) can affect serotonin, dopamine, and other chemical messengers in the brain known as neurotransmitters. Gaylyn Henderson, Mph, Health, 17 Mar. 2025 For example, tryptophan is precursor to serotonin, the body’s feel-good chemical. Fiona Embleton, Glamour, 14 Mar. 2025 For example, the gut produces a significant amount of serotonin and dopamine in our body, which affect our mood and emotions. Dr. Baibing Chen, Contributor, CNBC, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for serotonin

Word History

Etymology

sero- + ton(ic) entry 2 or tone entry 1 + -in entry 1, probably after angiotonin, earlier name for angiotensin — more at angiotensin

Note: Term introduced by Maurice M. Rapport, Arda Alden Green and Irvine H. Page in "Crystalline serotonin," Science, vol. 108, Issue 2804 (September 24, 1948), pp. 329-330: "The general behavior of the crystalline substance is suggestive of its homogeneity. We would like provisionally to name it serotonin, which indicates that its source is serum and its activity is one of causing constriction."

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of serotonin was in 1948

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Cite this Entry

“Serotonin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/serotonin. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

serotonin

noun
se·​ro·​to·​nin ˌsir-ə-ˈtō-nən How to pronounce serotonin (audio) ˌser- How to pronounce serotonin (audio)
: a phenolic amine neurotransmitter C10H12N2O that is a powerful vasoconstrictor and is found especially in the brain, blood serum, and gastric mucous membrane of mammals

called also 5-HT, 5-hydroxytryptamine

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