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
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Their breakthrough revealed that the signal represented five amino acids—the fundamental building blocks of life. Tom Howarth follow, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024 They’re loaded with a brightening and rejuvenating blend of vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and organic acids. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 1 Nov. 2024 Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, rosehip oil, collagen, amino acids, grapeseed oil Best For: Formulated for normal to dry skin types, the cream firms sagginess and brightens dark spots. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 31 Oct. 2024 Other key ingredients to look out for include vitamins, amino acids, and natural chemicals, which work to strengthen, hydrate, and regrow your hair. Alyssa Brascia, People.com, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for amino acid 

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amino acid was in 1897

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 22 Nov. 2024.

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

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