caffeine

noun

caf·​feine ka-ˈfēn How to pronounce caffeine (audio)
ˈka-ˌfēn
: a bitter alkaloid C8H10N4O2 found especially in coffee, tea, cacao, and kola nuts and used medicinally as a stimulant and diuretic

Examples of caffeine in a Sentence

Her doctor told her to avoid caffeine.
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.
The fermentation process in kombucha creates tyramine—a compound that stimulates your nervous system—and trace amounts of caffeine. Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024 Post-pandemic, people want natural foods that can support their immune systems, clear their heads and boost their energy without caffeine jitters. Robert Johnson, Rolling Stone, 6 Dec. 2024 In this formulation, caffeine constricts blood vessels to reduce puffiness and dark circles, while Caudalie’s patented ingredient, Viniferine is a natural compound derived from grapevine sap and stalks, to help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 2 Dec. 2024 Many causes of tachycardia, such as consuming too much caffeine, are easy to change, while other causes can include underlying problems with your heart or other organs. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 29 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for caffeine 

Word History

Etymology

German Kaffein, from Kaffee coffee, from French café

First Known Use

circa 1823, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of caffeine was circa 1823

Dictionary Entries Near caffeine

Cite this Entry

“Caffeine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/caffeine. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

caffeine

noun
caf·​feine ka-ˈfēn How to pronounce caffeine (audio)
ˈka-ˌfēn
: a bitter stimulating compound found especially in coffee, tea, cacao, and kola nuts

Medical Definition

caffeine

noun
: a bitter alkaloid C8H10N4O2 found especially in coffee, tea, and kola nuts and used medicinally as a stimulant and diuretic
caffeinic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on caffeine

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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