amylase

noun

am·​y·​lase ˈa-mə-ˌlās How to pronounce amylase (audio)
-ˌlāz
: any of a group of enzymes (such as amylopsin) that catalyze the hydrolysis of starch and glycogen or their intermediate hydrolysis products

Examples of amylase in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Reconstruction of the human amylase locus reveals ancient duplications seeding modern-day variation Postdoctoral Associate with the Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 18 Oct. 2024 According to the team, these initial duplications in our genomes were what laid the foundation for major variations in the amylase region. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 17 Oct. 2024 This gene on chromosome 1 codes for the salivary amylase. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 5 Sep. 2024 The team used these genomes to assess the variety of contemporary amylase regions. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 5 Sep. 2024 According to Pozniak, the best way to tackle this is to first go after the sugar with an enzymatic stain treatment (most stain-removing sprays will have enzymes like amylase, which is the one specific for sugar). Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2024 But Take Note This powder contains a digestive enzyme blend, including lactase, amylase, and lipase, which are generally considered safe and may improve digestion in some. Alexandra Paetow Ms Rdn, Parents, 15 Apr. 2024 Digestive Enzymes: Enzymes such as amylase and protease aid in breaking down food particles more efficiently, ensuring better nutrient absorption and reducing the appeal of undigested waste. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 5 Aug. 2023 Enzyme supplements such as amylase (for carbohydrates), protease (for proteins), and lipase (for fats) can aid in digestion and reduce symptoms of bloating, gas, and indigestion, especially for individuals with enzyme deficiencies or digestive disorders. Marilyn La Jeunesse, Glamour, 12 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amylase was in 1883

Dictionary Entries Near amylase

Cite this Entry

“Amylase.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amylase. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

amylase

noun
am·​y·​lase ˈam-ə-ˌlās How to pronounce amylase (audio)
-lāz
: an enzyme that speeds up the digestion of starch or glycogen

called also diastase

Medical Definition

amylase

noun
am·​y·​lase ˈam-ə-ˌlās, -ˌlāz How to pronounce amylase (audio)
: any of a group of enzymes (as amylopsin) that catalyze the hydrolysis of starch and glycogen or their intermediate hydrolysis products

More from Merriam-Webster on amylase

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