urea

noun

yu̇-ˈrē-ə 

: a soluble weakly basic nitrogenous compound CO(NH₂)₂ that is the chief solid component of mammalian urine and an end product of protein decomposition, is synthesized from carbon dioxide and ammonia, and is used especially in synthesis (as of resins and plastics) and in fertilizers and animal rations

Examples of urea in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Renal function panel: This test assesses kidney function by measuring for substances like creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). —Sarah Jividen, Health, 12 Dec. 2024

It’s made with moisturizing ingredients like urea, squalane and colloidal oatmeal. —Tanya Benedicto Klich, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024

Avoid ingredients like alcohol, camphor, glycolic acid, fragrances, lactic acid, menthol, sodium lauryl sulfate, or urea. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 2 Dec. 2024

With the highest concentration of exfoliating urea on this list—a whopping 17.7 percent—SkinCeuticals Body Retexturing Treatment can tackle even the bumpiest skin. —Kelsey Eisen, Allure, 28 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from French urée, from urine

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing urea

• urea-formaldehyde

Kids Definition

urea

noun

yu̇-ˈrē-ə 

: a soluble nitrogen-containing compound that is the chief solid substance in the urine of mammals and is an end product of protein breakdown

Medical Definition

urea

noun

yu̇-ˈrē-ə 

: a soluble weakly basic nitrogenous compound CH₄N₂O that is the chief solid component of mammalian urine and an end product of protein decomposition and that is administered intravenously as a diuretic drug

called also carbamide