tryptophan

noun

tryp·​to·​phan ˈtrip-tə-ˌfan 

variants or less commonly tryptophane

ˈtrip-tə-ˌfān 

: a crystalline essential amino acid C₁₁H₁₂N₂O₂ that is widely distributed in proteins

Examples of tryptophan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Chickpeas, the main ingredient in hummus, contain tryptophan and isoflavones, which have mild estrogen-like effects. —Allison Herries, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2025

For one thing, turkey isn’t particularly laden with tryptophan. —Nick Stockton, WIRED, 28 Nov. 2024

This combination provides fiber, calcium, and tryptophan, while the cinnamon adds a touch of warming spice. —Allison Herries, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2025

Fatty Fish Fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, tryptophan (an amino acid), taurine, and polyamines. —Cathy Nelson, Verywell Health, 18 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Tryptophan, from tryptisch tryptic + -o- -o- + -phan -phane

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing tryptophan

• L-tryptophan

Kids Definition

tryptophan

noun

tryp·​to·​phan ˈtrip-tə-ˌfan 

: an amino acid that is found in many proteins and is necessary for life but cannot be manufactured by the human body and must be obtained in food

Medical Definition

tryptophan

noun

tryp·​to·​phan ˈtrip-tə-ˌfan 

variants also tryptophane

-ˌfān 

: a crystalline essential amino acid C₁₁H₁₂N₂O₂ that is widely distributed in proteins

—abbreviation Trp