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

Knowing that a single DNA nucleotide and amino acid swap can significantly change how the protein complex functions could be useful for addressing some of the malfunctions that pop up. —Lauren Leffer, Popular Science, 27 Mar. 2025

BCAAs are a group of amino acids that can provide energy to skeletal muscle during exercise. —Patty Weasler, Rn, Bsn, Verywell Health, 27 Mar. 2025

The health halo comes from the fact that some nutrients like collagen, gelatin, calcium, and amino acids are released from the bones during the cooking process. —Alice Oglethorpe, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2025

Essentially, the intestine gives priority to glucose absorption, putting uptake of essential nutrients like amino acids and fats in the back of the queue. —Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 21 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for amino acid

• antacid
• placid

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