guarana

noun

gua·​ra·​na ˌgwä-rə-ˈnä How to pronounce guarana (audio)
: a dried paste that is made from the seeds of a South American climbing shrub (Paullinia cupana) of the soapberry family, that contains caffeine and tannin, and that is used as a stimulant
also : this plant

Examples of guarana 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.
Taurine is a popular ingredient in energy drinks and pre-workout supplements, which often include stimulant ingredients like caffeine and guarana. Jillian Kubala, Rd, Health, 5 Nov. 2024 Due to the potent caffeine, those who are pregnant should avoid consuming guarana. Chaunie Brusie, Rn, Parents, 1 July 2024 The guarana plant contains four times the amount of caffeine as coffee beans. Chaunie Brusie, Rn, Parents, 1 July 2024 The drink includes multiple sources of caffeine, including coffee and guarana extracts, and a high amount of sugar. Justine McDaniel, Washington Post, 18 Jan. 2024 See all Example Sentences for guarana 

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese guaraná, from Nhengatu (Tupi-based lingua franca of Amazonia), from Sateré-Mawé (Tupian language of the middle Amazon River basin) warana

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of guarana was in 1838

Dictionary Entries Near guarana

Cite this Entry

“Guarana.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guarana. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

guarana

noun
gua·​ra·​na ˌgwär-ə-ˈnä How to pronounce guarana (audio)
: a dried paste made from the seeds of a Brazilian climbing shrub (Paullinia cupana) containing tannin and caffeine and used in making an astringent drink

More from Merriam-Webster on guarana

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!