whey

noun

ˈ(h)wā 

: the watery part of milk that is separated from the coagulable part or curd especially in the process of making cheese and that is rich in lactose, minerals, and vitamins and contains lactalbumin and traces of fat

wheylike

ˈ(h)wā-ˌlīk 

adjective

Examples of whey in a Sentence

The curd has separated from the whey.

Recent Examples on the Web

Many protein powders are made with whey protein, which is isolated from milk. —Kristen Gasnick, Pt, Dpt, Verywell Health, 19 Dec. 2024

Three scoops of whey protein powder contain 50 grams of protein and 194 milligrams of choline (35% of the DV).43 16. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 9 Dec. 2024

Customers for its whey protein ingredient includes 13 of the top 20 sports nutrition brands. —Richard Collings, Axios, 29 Oct. 2024

The reform focuses on being more reflective of modern cows’ ability to produce greater fat and protein amounts; updating the cost support processors receive for cheese, butter, nonfat dry milk, and dried whey; and updating the way Class 1 is valued, among other changes. —Elizabeth Eckelkamp, WIRED, 21 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English hwæg; akin to Middle Dutch wey whey

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing whey

• whey-face

Kids Definition

whey

noun

ˈhwā 

ˈwā

: the watery part of milk that separates after the milk has soured and thickened especially in the process of making cheese compare curd sense 1

Medical Definition

whey

noun

ˈhwā  ˈwā 

: the serum or watery part of milk that is separated from the coagulable part or curd especially in the process of making cheese and that is rich in lactose, minerals, and vitamins and contains lactalbumin and traces of fat