Meaning & use

oxytocin

noun·Academic

A hormone that promotes social bonding and is released during childbirth, breastfeeding, and physical affection.

See it in a sentence

Levels of oxytocin rise sharply in a mother's body immediately after she gives birth.

Researchers found that petting a dog can boost oxytocin in both the owner and the pet.

A note on using this word

Oxytocin is sometimes nicknamed the love hormone because of its role in trust, bonding, and affectionate touch.

Words with a similar meaning

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