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amino acid
noun
: an amphoteric organic acid containing the amino group NH2
especially
: any of the various amino acids having the amino group in the alpha position that are the chief components of proteins and are synthesized by living cells or are obtained as essential components of the diet
Examples of amino acid in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The protein in oats lacks the amino acid lysine, potentially affecting digestion.
—Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Ld, Health, 14 Jan. 2025
The building blocks of protein are known as amino acids.
—Maxine Lipner, Verywell Health, 10 Jan. 2025
Ribosomes read the mRNA sequence, and as the ribosome moves along the mRNA, amino acids are linked together in the order specified, forming a growing protein chain.
—New Atlas, 1 Jan. 2025
This rich hair cream is spiked with amino acids that strengthen hair and prevent ends from splitting in the future.
—Marci Robin, Allure, 21 Dec. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1897, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near amino acid
Cite this Entry
“Amino acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amino%20acid. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
amino acid
noun
ami·no acid
ə-ˈmē-nō-
: any of numerous acids that include some which are the building blocks of proteins and are made by living cells from simpler compounds or are obtained in the diet
Medical Definition
amino acid
noun
: an amphoteric organic acid containing the amino group NH2
especially
: alpha-amino acid
More from Merriam-Webster on amino acid
Nglish: Translation of amino acid for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about amino acid
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