adrenaline
noun
Note: Adrenaline is used in both technical and nontechnical contexts. It is commonly used in describing the physiological symptoms (such as increased heart rate and respiration) that occur as part of the body's fight-or-flight response to stress, as when someone is in a dangerous, frightening, or highly competitive situation, as well as the feelings of heightened energy, excitement, strength, and alertness associated with those symptoms. In figurative use, it suggests a drug that provides something with a jolt of useful energy and stimulation.
W. P. KinsellaLance ArmstrongTown and CountryExamples of adrenaline in a Sentence
Jason Jones, New York Times, 15 May 2026
Public health agencies coordinate response As fan adrenaline builds, public health officials in host cities are also preparing for the challenges posed by millions of visitors arriving from around the world.
—Marissa Armas, CBS News, 13 May 2026
Racing at Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez This charter yacht is for those who’d gladly switch out the onboard spa for a rush of adrenaline (and faceful of sea spray).
—Dea Jusufi, Forbes.com, 9 May 2026
During these periods of ongoing stress, hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline remain persistently elevated.
—Danielle Wilhour, The Conversation, 5 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for adrenaline
Cite this Entry
“Adrenaline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adrenaline. Accessed 21 May. 2026.
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adrenaline
noun
Medical Definition
adrenaline
noun
