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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
That’s not easy to replicate with some plant proteins, which tend to have more sulfur-containing amino acids than egg proteins do.
—Bob Holmes, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 Dec. 2024
The aroma of cooked meats typically comes from chemical reactions between sugars and amino acids.
—Discover Magazine, 28 Nov. 2024
These drinks not only taste great but are packed with vitamins and amino acids, using natural caffeine to provide a smooth, jitter-free energy boost.
—Hannah Rice, Rolling Stone, 26 Nov. 2024
Pure maple syrup offers potassium, calcium and some amino acids.
—Fred Sassani, Austin American-Statesman, 22 Nov. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1897, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near amino acid
Cite this Entry
“Amino acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amino%20acid. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.
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
Nglish: Translation of amino acid for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about amino acid
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