: any of several microbial growth factors
especially : a fatty acid C8H14O2S2 that is essential for the oxidation of alpha-keto acids (such as pyruvic acid) in metabolism

Examples of lipoic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Key Ingredients: Peptides, alpha lipoic acid, vitamin B3, vitamin C ester, SPF 25 How to Apply: Use the cream as part of a daily, morning-skincare regime. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 20 Jan. 2025 Crafted with ashwagandha, NAC and alpha lipoic acid, the supplement includes a special form of CoQ10 for enhanced bioavailability. Perri Ormont Blumberg, Glamour, 10 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

lip-, lipo-

First Known Use

circa 1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lipoic acid was circa 1951

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Cite this Entry

“Lipoic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lipoic%20acid. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

: any of several microbial growth factors
especially : a crystalline compound C8H14O2S2 that is essential for the oxidation of alpha-keto acids (as pyruvic acid) in metabolism

called also protogen

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