1
: an inorganic compound derived from ammonia by replacement of an atom of hydrogen with another element (such as a metal)
2
: any of a class of organic compounds derived from ammonia or an amine by replacement of hydrogen with an acyl group compare amine, imide

Examples of amide 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.
The team thinks this is the result of the chemical structure of the protein, in particular the way amide groups bond with water molecules. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 12 Oct. 2021 Surrounding this custom carbon plate is a thick layer of ultra-light, soft, and responsive PEBA (polyether block amide) foam. Cory Smith, Outside Online, 18 Oct. 2022 After briefly trying different polymer components — amides rather than esters — Carothers turned to other research topics. Virginia Postrel, Twin Cities, 1 Nov. 2019

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from New Latin ammonia

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of amide was in 1836

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Cite this Entry

“Amide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amide. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

: an organic compound derived from ammonia or an amine by replacement of an atom of hydrogen with an acyl group compare imide

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