adrenaline

Everyday

1. Adrenaline is a chemical (a hormone) that your body releases when you are scared, excited or in danger; it makes your heart beat faster and gives you quick energy. tree →
2. Adrenaline (as a medicine, epinephrine) is used in emergency pens for people with severe allergies. tree →

In the lessons

In science (the body), adrenaline explains «fight or flight»: in danger the body gets ready to fight or run — faster heartbeat, quicker breathing, more energy, butterflies in the tummy. In safety, children with severe allergies (nuts, bee stings) may carry an adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen); adults and sometimes older children are trained to use it in an emergency and then call for an ambulance. Phrases: a rush of adrenaline, adrenaline pen, adrenaline junkie.

Examples

• I felt a rush of adrenaline before the race. tree →
• Adrenaline makes your heart beat faster. tree →
• When the dog barked suddenly, adrenaline made me jump. tree →
• Sam carries an adrenaline pen because of his nut allergy. tree →
• Roller coasters give people an adrenaline rush. tree →
• After the adrenaline wears off, you can feel very tired. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Spelled «adrenaline» (also «adrenalin»); in American medicine, the drug name is «epinephrine». Made in the adrenal glands, above the kidneys.