amyloid

noun

am·​y·​loid ˈa-mə-ˌlȯid How to pronounce amyloid (audio)
: a waxy translucent substance consisting primarily of protein that is deposited in some animal organs and tissues under abnormal conditions (such as Alzheimer's disease) compare beta-amyloid
amyloid adjective

Examples of amyloid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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One of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's is the development of amyloid plaques in the brain, which occurs when a naturally occurring protein, beta-amyloid, clumps together to form plaques that disrupt nerve cell function, according to the NIH. Lauren De Young, The Arizona Republic, 16 Nov. 2024 Typically, people will either get a positron emission technology (PET) scan of the brain or a spinal fluid test to look for evidence of amyloid. Lisa Rapaport, EverydayHealth.com, 9 July 2024 This includes persons with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia and confirmed amyloid plaques. Joshua P. Cohen, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024 There can also be a reduction of amyloid plaques, which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for amyloid 

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amyloid was in 1866

Dictionary Entries Near amyloid

Cite this Entry

“Amyloid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amyloid. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

amyloid

noun
am·​y·​loid
ˈam-ə-ˌlȯid
1
: a nonnitrogenous starchy food
2
: a waxy translucent substance consisting primarily of protein that is deposited in some animal organs and tissue under abnormal conditions (as in Alzheimer's disease) see beta-amyloid
amyloid adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on amyloid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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