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Definition of protein

protein

/ˈproʊ.tiːn/
pro · tein
Plural:proteins
•
Adjective:proteinaceous
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protein Lexical Profile

protein Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Any of a large class of complex organic macromolecules composed of one or more chains of amino acids, essential for the structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs.

Example

"Enzymes and antibodies are specialized proteins that carry out vital chemical reactions in the human body."

2

Food sources rich in amino acids, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts, considered collectively as a dietary macronutrient.

Example

"The nutritionist recommended adding more plant-based protein like lentils and tofu to his daily meals."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for protein

• Rhymes for protein

• Nearby Words

protectrix
protege
protegee
protein
protest
protestant
protestation

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1838 by Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius and Dutch chemist Gerardus Johannes Mulder from the Ancient Greek 'prōteios' ('primary' or 'of the first quality'), reflecting its fundamental importance to all living organisms.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Protein. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/protein
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