noun
melatonin
mel-uh-TOH-nin
Melatonin (noun) means a hormone made by the pineal gland that helps control the body's sleep and wake cycle and, in mammals, its reproductive cycle. Example: “The body releases more melatonin as darkness falls.”
noun
1
A hormone made by the pineal gland that helps control the body's sleep and wake cycle and, in mammals, its reproductive cycle.
"The body releases more melatonin as darkness falls."
"Melatonin levels naturally rise in the evening."
"Her pineal gland produces less melatonin as she gets older."
2
A manufactured substance with the same chemistry and effect as the natural hormone, taken as a supplement.
"He took melatonin before his flight to help him sleep."
"Some travellers use melatonin to cope with jet lag."
"The pharmacy stocks melatonin tablets in several strengths."
How to use melatonin
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe hormone your body makes to help you feel sleepy at night, or a supplement version of it.
When to use it
Used comfortably in both everyday conversation and medical writing.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
melatonin levels
take melatonin
melatonin supplement
melatonin production
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The body releases more _____ as darkness falls.
Etymology
The word is built from mela-, tone, and the suffix -in. It traces back to the Ancient Greek word for black or dark.
Rhymes for melatonin
See all rhymes for melatonin →Frequently asked questions
What is melatonin?
It is a hormone released by the pineal gland that helps regulate sleep and, in mammals, reproduction. The name is also used for manufactured versions sold as supplements.
Does melatonin help you sleep?
Yes, it is closely tied to the body's sleep and wake cycle, which is why supplement versions are taken to encourage sleep.
Is melatonin the same as serotonin?
No, though the two are related, melatonin and serotonin are different hormones with different roles in the body.
What is the meaning of melatonin?
"melatonin" (noun) means a hormone made by the pineal gland that helps control the body's sleep and wake cycle and, in mammals, its reproductive cycle.
