amino acid

noun

: an amphoteric organic acid containing the amino group NH2
especially : any of the various amino acids having the amino group in the alpha position that are the chief components of proteins and are synthesized by living cells or are obtained as essential components of the diet

Examples of amino acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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And while flying requires substantially more energy than running, the researchers believe the vampires and similarly burning amino acids for flight as well. Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 7 Nov. 2024 It’s packed with moisture-retaining amino acids to keep your body feeling fresh and nourished long after hopping out of the shower. Devon Abelman, Allure, 6 Nov. 2024 With a rich texture and a citrus scent, the cream targets sagging skin with firming collagen and amino acids. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 31 Oct. 2024 How Creatine Works in the Body Creatine is a combination of amino acids naturally synthesized (made) in the pancreas, liver, and kidney. Mark Gurarie, Health, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for amino acid 

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amino acid was in 1897

Dictionary Entries Near amino acid

Cite this Entry

“Amino acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amino%20acid. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

amino acid

noun
ami·​no acid
ə-ˈmē-nō-
: any of numerous acids that include some which are the building blocks of proteins and are made by living cells from simpler compounds or are obtained in the diet

Medical Definition

amino acid

noun
: an amphoteric organic acid containing the amino group NH2
especially : alpha-amino acid

More from Merriam-Webster on amino acid

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