casein

noun

ca·​sein ˈkā-ˌsēn 

kā-ˈsēn

: a phosphoprotein of milk: such as

a

: one that is precipitated from milk by heating with an acid or by the action of lactic acid in souring and is used in making paints and adhesives

b

: one that is produced when milk is curdled by rennet, is the chief constituent of cheese, and is used in making plastics

Examples of casein in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Animal-friendly Vegan protein powders do not use any animal products, unlike other formulas that feature proteins like whey (derived from milk), egg whites, or casein (made from dehydrated milk curd). —Suzy Forman, SELF, 21 Nov. 2024

Allergic reactions to milk are immune responses to proteins—whey and casein—in the milk, unlike lactose intolerance reactions which produce gut symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal cramping. —David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

There are many popular protein supplements, including whey, casein, and soy protein. —Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 30 Oct. 2024

Whey is digested more quickly than other protein products, such as soy or casein. —Mary Choy, Health, 21 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

probably from French caséine, from Latin caseus cheese

First Known Use

1823, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

casein

noun

ca·​sein ˈkā-ˌsēn 

kā-ˈsēn

1

: a phosphorus-containing protein that is separated from milk especially by the action of acid that is used in making paints and adhesives

2

: a phosphorus-containing protein that is produced when milk is made to form curds by rennet, that makes up a major part of cheese, and that is used in making plastics

Medical Definition

casein

noun

ca·​sein ˈkā-ˌsēn, ka-ˈsēn 

: any of several phosphoproteins of milk: as

a

: one that occurs as a colloidal suspension in milk

called also caseinogen

b

: one that is produced when milk is curdled by rennet, is the chief constituent of cheese, and is used in making plastics

called also paracasein