adrenaline
uh-DREN-uh-lin
/əˈdrɛnəlɪn/
A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands, especially in conditions of stress, increasing rates of blood circulation, breathing, and carbohydrate metabolism and preparing muscles for exertion.
Commonly used to describe the 'rush' or excitement felt during dangerous or thrilling activities.
The story behind the word. Coined in the late 19th century from the Latin 'ad' (near) and 'renes' (kidneys), because the adrenal glands are located right on top of the kidneys.
Word relationships
- epinephrine: Epinephrine is the technical, medical term used in North America; adrenaline is the common term.
Commonly confused with
- noradrenaline: A related hormone that acts more as a neurotransmitter to increase blood pressure.
Word family
- adrenal (adjective): Relating to the adrenal glands.
Collocations
- adrenaline rush
- adrenaline junkie
- surge of adrenaline
- pumped with adrenaline
Example sentences
- "The adrenaline was pumping through his veins as he stood on the edge of the cliff." Extreme sports.
- "Adrenaline can give people the strength to perform incredible feats in an emergency." Emergency response.
Memory hook
Adrenaline: It's the 'ADD-REAL-LINE' to your energy. Near the kidneys (renal).
When not to use
Avoid using it as a synonym for 'happiness'; it specifically refers to the biological 'fight or flight' response.
Fun facts
- Adrenaline is what causes your palms to sweat and your heart to race when you are nervous or excited.
Related words
Explore more words
exhilarate, jittery, galvanize, accelerate, metabolism, thriller
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