lactase

noun

lac·​tase ˈlak-ˌtās 

-ˌtāz

: an enzyme that hydrolyzes beta-galactosides (such as lactose) and occurs especially in the intestines of young mammals and in yeasts

Examples of lactase in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Enzyme lactase: These medications, like Lactaid or Dairy Ease, are meant to help people with lactose intolerance digest foods with lactose and might help prevent protein farting related to lactose. —Cristina Mutchler, Health, 31 July 2024

As an extra precaution, many brands also add lactase to their product to make sure not even trace amounts of lactose remain. —Audrey Bruno, SELF, 20 June 2024

Taking a lactase enzyme supplement has been shown to prevent symptoms when taken with lactose foods (dairy). —Suzie Finkel Ms, Rd, Cdn, Health, 26 May 2024

Just a single caplet packs a hefty 10,350 ALU (lactase units) compared to comparable products with as little as 3,000 ALU across two or more pills. —Suzie Finkel Ms, Rd, Cdn, Health, 26 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

lactase

noun

lac·​tase ˈlak-ˌtās 

: an enzyme that breaks down lactose and related compounds and occurs especially in the intestines of young mammals and in yeasts

Medical Definition

lactase

noun

lac·​tase ˈlak-ˌtās, -ˌtāz 

: an enzyme that hydrolyzes especially lactose to glucose and galactose and occurs especially in the intestines of young mammals and in yeasts