endorphin
noun
Did you know?
The word endorphin was coined, back when the substances were discovered in the 1970s, by joining pieces of endogenous and morphine, morphine being a narcotic that closely resembles the endorphins and relieves pain in a similar way. Studies suggest that the pain-relieving practice called acupuncture works by releasing endorphins. Endorphins also seem to play an important role in pregnancy. Though much remains to be learned about the endorphins, the general public seems ready to give them credit for any all-natural high.
Examples of endorphin in a Sentence
Rona Berg, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025
In addition, exposure to cold increases levels of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving and mood-improving chemicals.5
Additional research could help apply these findings to how cold plunging may or may not relieve different types of pain and inflammation throughout the body.
—Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 23 Apr. 2025
Time in nature An indoor, sedentary lifestyle does not increase endorphins and serotonin.
—Ana Morales, Vogue, 7 Apr. 2025
Plus, upbeat songs trigger the release of dopamine and endorphins, while dancing relieves physical tension—all of which can help counteract anxiety.
—Angela Haupt, TIME, 17 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for endorphin
Cite this Entry
“Endorphin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endorphin. Accessed 2 May. 2025.
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endorphin
noun
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