amino acid

noun

: an amphoteric organic acid containing the amino group NH2
especially : any of the various amino acids having the amino group in the alpha position that are the chief components of proteins and are synthesized by living cells or are obtained as essential components of the diet

Examples of amino acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Leafy Greens Leafy greens contain both amino acids and vitamin C, which are essential for collagen production. Angela Ryan Lee, Verywell Health, 11 Feb. 2026 At least 14 of the 20 amino acids used by life on Earth, and 19 other amino acids not used by life, have been identified in the sample from Bennu, which was delivered to Earth in September 2023. Keith Cooper, Space.com, 11 Feb. 2026 Choose Glycine for an Effective Sleep Aid Glycine is an amino acid that has shown promise in helping people fall asleep more deeply and wake up more alert the next day. Jenna Anderson, Health, 10 Feb. 2026 Urine also glows due to the presence of porphyrins and amino acids. New Atlas, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for amino acid

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amino acid was in 1897

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Cite this Entry

“Amino acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amino%20acid. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

amino acid

noun
ami·​no acid
ə-ˈmē-nō-
: any of numerous acids that include some which are the building blocks of proteins and are made by living cells from simpler compounds or are obtained in the diet

Medical Definition

amino acid

noun
: an amphoteric organic acid containing the amino group NH2
especially : alpha-amino acid

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