amino acid

noun

: an amphoteric organic acid containing the amino group NH2
especially : any of the various amino acids having the amino group in the alpha position that are the chief components of proteins and are synthesized by living cells or are obtained as essential components of the diet

Examples of amino acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In their view, inorganic molecules might have reacted due to energy from the Sun or lightning strikes to form life’s building blocks, like amino acids. Ars Technica, 14 Mar. 2025 For instance, one study evaluated a facial serum containing neuropeptides, proteins, amino acids, and marine extract. Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 12 Mar. 2025 To determine the child’s age, scientists extracted a specific amino acid called hydroxyproline from collagen in the bones. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Mar. 2025 High levels of this amino acid are known to increase the risk of coronary artery disease and blood clots, and can result from a diet deficient in folic acid or vitamin B12. Neil Savage, Scientific American, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for amino acid

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amino acid was in 1897

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Cite this Entry

“Amino acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amino%20acid. Accessed 18 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

amino acid

noun
ami·​no acid
ə-ˈmē-nō-
: any of numerous acids that include some which are the building blocks of proteins and are made by living cells from simpler compounds or are obtained in the diet

Medical Definition

amino acid

noun
: an amphoteric organic acid containing the amino group NH2
especially : alpha-amino acid

More from Merriam-Webster on amino acid

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