insulin

noun

in·​su·​lin ˈin(t)-s(ə-)lən 

: a protein pancreatic hormone secreted by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans that is essential especially for the metabolism of carbohydrates and the regulation of glucose levels in the blood and that when insufficiently produced results in diabetes mellitus

Examples of insulin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Stay active: Regular physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively. —Lauren Manaker Ms, Health, 19 June 2025

Chromium improves insulin sensitivity and cinnamon, banana and garcinia gymnema control glucose levels. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 16 June 2025

Research shows the drug can significantly reduce androgen levels, get menstrual cycles back on track, and improve insulin sensitivity when used to treat PCOS specifically. —Alisa Hrustic, SELF, 16 June 2025

But even one night of partial sleep can reduce insulin sensitivity by up to 25%, leaving more sugar circulating in your blood. —Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse, The Conversation, 16 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin insula islet (of Langerhans), from Latin, island

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing insulin

• insulin-dependent diabetes
• insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
• insulin-like growth factor
• insulin resistance
• insulin resistance syndrome
• insulin shock
• non-insulin-dependent diabetes
• non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

Kids Definition

insulin

noun

in·​su·​lin ˈin(t)-s(ə-)lən 

: a hormone that is produced by the pancreas and is necessary for the normal use of glucose by the body

Medical Definition

insulin

noun

in·​su·​lin ˈin(t)-s(ə-)lən 

: a protein hormone that is synthesized in the pancreas from proinsulin and secreted by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans, that is essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, that regulates blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into tissues, by promoting its conversion into glycogen, fatty acids, and triglycerides, and by reducing the release of glucose from the liver, and that when produced in insufficient quantities results in diabetes mellitus see iletin