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
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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 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

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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