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anandamide

anandamide

2 9.9
A chemical made by the body that affects mood and feelings of well-being
  • noun
  • /əˈnændəˌmaɪd/
  • Specialized
: anandamida
  • In his studies, he found that anandamide can help regulate various brain functions and improve relationships.
  • anandamide receptors

Examples

  • "Do you know that anandamide, one of the active ingredients in chocolate, is a cannabinoid?

    Fiction book (2001)
  • Research has shown that anandamide plays a crucial role in influencing mood and emotional well-being.

  • The endocannabinoid and anandamide pathway are strongly linked to health.

    Blog text (34)
  • Scientists discovered that anandamide acts as a neurotransmitter that affects feelings of happiness.

Surface Forms

anandamide singular
anandamides plural

Morphology

anandamide = ananda + amide

The element 'ananda' is a Sanskrit combining form (not a productive English root) combined with the chemical suffix '-amide', so an average B1 learner cannot derive the meaning from familiar English components.

Etymology

Anandamide comes from the Sanskrit word ānanda meaning 'bliss' or 'joy' and the chemical ending -amide. So, its name links this natural body chemical to feelings of happiness and well-being.