Definition

A chemical that acts as both a hormone and a neurotransmitter, helping to regulate functions like heart rate and blood pressure.

Example

Norepinephrine plays a key role in the body's response to stress.

Conversation

Did you know that norepinephrine plays a key role in our stress response?

Really? I thought it was just a hormone that affects mood.

Yeah, it actually helps regulate blood pressure and heart rate too.

That’s interesting! I need to read more about how it affects our body.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Norepinephrine is formed from "nor-" (meaning a chemical compound that has been modified by the removal of a methyl group), "epi-" (meaning upon or above), and "nephrine" (from Greek "nephros", meaning kidney). The word refers to a compound that acts upon the kidneys and is involved in the body's response to stress.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nor-' as a modification, 'epi-' meaning upon, and 'nephrine' relating to the kidneys — together, they describe a compound that acts upon the kidneys.

Visually Confused Words