alkaloid

noun

al·​ka·​loid ˈal-kə-ˌlȯid How to pronounce alkaloid (audio)
: any of numerous usually colorless, complex, and bitter organic bases (such as morphine or caffeine) containing nitrogen and usually oxygen that occur especially in seed plants and are typically physiologically active
alkaloidal adjective

Examples of alkaloid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This kratom strain has become well-known all over the world because of its unique combination of alkaloids, which enhances its potency and effectiveness. Sponsored Content, The Mercury News, 16 Feb. 2024 The main kind of Kratom alkaloid, mitragynine, is a partial agonist for the mu-opioid signals [1]. Sponsored Content, The Mercury News, 19 Jan. 2024 Simultaneous quantification of ten key Kratom alkaloids in Mitragyna speciosa leaf extracts and commercial products by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Sponsored Content, The Mercury News, 19 Jan. 2024 Ergots are alkaloids—either ergotamine or dihydroergotamine—sometimes combined with caffeine. Kaitlin Sullivan, Health, 13 Dec. 2023 Catuaba Bark Catuaba bark contains several alkaloids, such as catuabine A, B, and C, known for their aphrodisiac properties. Discover Magazine, 29 Apr. 2023 Bronze Age humans, 3,000 years ago, got high on hallucinogenic plant alkaloids so powerful and dangerous that even psychedelic users of today avoid them, according to a new study. Matt Hrodey, Discover Magazine, 13 Apr. 2023 Nandina berries contain a tiny amount of cyanide along with other alkaloids that produce hydrogen cyanide (HCN) which is a highly toxic substance to all humans and animals. Steve Bender, Southern Living, 9 Dec. 2023 Berberine, a naturally occurring alkaloid found in several plants, has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity and improve glucose metabolism. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 12 Sep. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'alkaloid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alkaloid was in 1820

Dictionary Entries Near alkaloid

Cite this Entry

“Alkaloid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alkaloid. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

alkaloid

noun
al·​ka·​loid ˈal-kə-ˌlȯid How to pronounce alkaloid (audio)
: any of numerous usually colorless, complex, and bitter organic bases (as morphine or caffeine) containing nitrogen and usually oxygen that occur especially in seed plants and are typically physiologically active
alkaloidal adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on alkaloid

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