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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 formula has evolved over the years to now include skin-boosting vitamins and amino acids.
—
Clare Holden, Glamour, 6 Feb. 2025
On the other side lay an aqueous solution that was rich with L-serine, an amino acid that is critical for protein synthesis and cell proliferation.
—
Gayoung Lee, Scientific American, 5 Feb. 2025
There are 20 types of amino acids, 11 of which are created within the body.
—
Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 30 Jan. 2025
Taurine is one of several amino acids found in eggs.
—
Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2025
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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 10 Feb. 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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