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Definitions from WordNet

Definitions from the Web

Oxytocin

Definition:

Oxytocin is a hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in social bonding, childbirth, and milk release during breastfeeding.

Senses:

1. Noun - Biochemistry:

A hormone secreted in humans and animals, especially in females, to stimulate uterine contractions during labor and lactation.

Example sentence: The administration of oxytocin can facilitate contractions during labor.

2. Noun - Psychology:

A neuropeptide associated with trust, empathy, and social bonding.

Example sentence: Enhanced levels of oxytocin in the brain can promote bonding between partners.

3. Noun - Veterinary medicine:

A hormone given to female mammals to induce uterine contractions and milk ejection during parturition and to assist with lactation.

Example sentence: The veterinarian administered oxytocin to the cow to facilitate milk release.

4. Noun - Chemistry:

A synthetic analog of oxytocin used to induce labor or strengthen contractions.

Example sentence: The doctor prescribed an oxytocin compound to assist in initiating labor.