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amylase
noun
am·y·lase
ˈa-mə-ˌlās
-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
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
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Word History
First Known Use
1883, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near amylase
Cite this Entry
“Amylase.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amylase. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
amylase
noun
am·y·lase
ˈam-ə-ˌlās
-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
: 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
Nglish: Translation of amylase for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of amylase for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about amylase
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