1. Chemical compounds released by cells in the body during allergic reactions and immune responses, causing inflammation, itching, and other symptoms.
Usage: plural form; scientific/medical term; commonly used in healthcare and biology contexts

Examples

• When exposed to allergens, the body releases histamines that trigger sneezing and itching.
• Antihistamine medications block the effects of histamines to relieve allergy symptoms.
• Histamines are responsible for the swelling and redness that occur during an allergic reaction.
• The immune system produces histamines as part of its response to foreign substances.
• High levels of histamines in the blood can cause hives and other skin reactions.