agar

noun

ˈä-gər 

1

: a gelatinous colloidal extract of a red alga (as of the genera Gelidium, Gracilaria, and Eucheuma) used especially in culture media or as a gelling and stabilizing agent in foods

2

: a culture medium containing agar

Examples of agar in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Over time, Iwasaki developed a production method using wax and agar jelly molds, though now the company mainly uses PVC. —Rosa Rahimi, CNN, 16 Dec. 2024

Lingering spring mist created with agar and cracked mochi rice. —Caroline Newton, Bon Appétit, 12 Dec. 2024

The bad agar derailed their experiments for two months. —Sarah Zhang, The Atlantic, 25 Sep. 2024

Research, though, is limited as to the effects of agar in general, but especially, as an appetite suppressant and people should consult with a medical provider before use, especially as side effects and interactions are also limited. —Trang Tran, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 18 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

short for Malay agar-agar, name for the red alga from which it is extracted

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing agar

• agar-agar
• agar plate

Kids Definition

agar

noun

ˈäg-ər 

variants also agar-agar

ˈäg-ə-ˈräg-ər

1

: a jellylike substance obtained from a red alga and used especially in culture media or to give firmness to foods

2

: a culture medium containing agar

Medical Definition

agar

noun

ˈäg-ər 

1

: a gelatinous colloidal extract of a red alga (as of the genera Gelidium, Gracilaria, and Eucheuma) used especially in culture media or as a gelling and stabilizing agent in foods

2

: a culture medium containing agar