taurine

1 of 2

adjective

tau·​rine ˈtȯ-ˌrīn 

: of or relating to a bull : bovine

taurine

2 of 2

noun

tau·​rine ˈtȯ-ˌrēn 

: a crystalline acid C₂H₇NO₃S that is synthesized in the body from cysteine and methionine, is similar to amino acids but is not a component of proteins, and is involved in various physiological functions (such as bile acid conjugation and cell membrane stabilization)

Examples of taurine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

For this reason, people taking blood pressure medications should check with their healthcare provider before taking taurine supplements. —Jillian Kubala, Rd, Health, 5 Nov. 2024

When shopping for taurine supplements, read product labels carefully and avoid supplements that contain ingredients that may not be safe for you. —Jillian Kubala, Rd, Health, 5 Nov. 2024

Noun

Though most people don't require supplemental taurine, research shows that taurine supplements may be helpful for specific populations, such as athletes and people with diabetes. —Jillian Kubala, Rd, Health, 5 Nov. 2024

Although taurine is considered safe, formulations containing taurine and other ingredients may affect the body differently. —Jillian Kubala, Rd, Health, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin taurinus, from taurus bull; akin to Greek tauros bull, Middle Irish tarb

Noun

International Scientific Vocabulary, from Latin taurus; from its having been discovered in ox bile

First Known Use

Adjective

1613, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1845, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

taurine

noun

tau·​rine ˈtȯ-ˌrēn 

: a colorless crystalline acid C₂H₇NO₃S that is synthesized in the body from cysteine and methionine, is similar to amino acids but is not a component of proteins, and is involved in various physiological functions (as bile acid conjugation and cell membrane stabilization)