pyruvate

noun

py·​ru·​vate pī-ˈrü-ˌvāt How to pronounce pyruvate (audio)
: a salt or ester of pyruvic acid

Examples of pyruvate in a Sentence

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.
Studies have found that diets high in pyruvate often lead to weight loss and improved metabolism.13 Pyruvate can be found in certain fruits, vegetables, and cheeses. Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 20 Nov. 2024 In the cells, glucose is broken down into pyruvate. James Robinson, Discover Magazine, 20 Oct. 2022 One type of pyruvate tracer reveals how much carbon is given off during daytime respiration—a key part of the carbon cycle that needs to be better quantified, Werner says. Erik Stokstad, Science | AAAS, 16 Oct. 2019 Lactate oxidase, for example, breaks lactate into pyruvate and peroxide. IEEE Spectrum, 22 Oct. 2014

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pyruvate was in 1838

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Cite this Entry

“Pyruvate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pyruvate. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

pyruvate

noun
py·​ru·​vate pī-ˈrü-ˌvāt How to pronounce pyruvate (audio)
: a salt or ester of pyruvic acid

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