What does "protein" mean?

1. (biological molecule) a complex natural molecule made of amino acids that builds and repairs your body. 2. (nutritional category) one of the main parts of food that gives you energy and helps muscles grow. 3. (a type of food) a food that is high in protein, such as meat, fish, or tofu.

How do you use "protein"?

Often used as a countable noun in scientific contexts when referring to specific types. Usually uncountable when referring to the nutrient in general.

protein

US //ˈpɹoʊˌtin// UK //pɹˈəʊtiːn// pro·tein

1 biological molecule (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Science

a complex natural molecule made of amino acids that builds and repairs your body.

any of a class of nitrogenous organic compounds which have large molecules composed of one or more long chains of amino acids.

Example

The scientist studied how the protein changes shape when it gets hot.

Example

The researchers identified a specific protein responsible for transporting calcium across the cell membrane, which could lead to new treatments for bone diseases.

Usage

Often used as a countable noun in scientific contexts when referring to specific types.
2 nutritional category (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

one of the main parts of food that gives you energy and helps muscles grow.

one of the three primary macronutrients, essential for the growth and repair of body tissues.

Example

Athletes often eat a lot of protein to help their muscles recover after exercise.

Example

Nutritionists recommend balancing your intake of protein, carbohydrates, and fats to maintain a healthy metabolic rate.

Usage

Usually uncountable when referring to the nutrient in general.

Show 1 more senseShow fewer

3 a type of food (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Cooking

a food that is high in protein, such as meat, fish, or tofu.

a specific food item or ingredient valued primarily for its high protein content.

Example

For dinner, we had chicken as our main protein with a side of vegetables.

Example

The chef suggested that lentils serve as an excellent plant-based protein for those looking to reduce their meat consumption without sacrificing nutrition.

Origin

From proto- + -ein. Suggested by Jöns Jacob Berzelius in a letter to Gerardus Johannes Mulder, from French protéine and German Protein, both coined based on Ancient Greek πρωτεῖος (prōteîos, “primary”), from πρῶτος (prôtos, “first”).

Word family

Nounprotease
Nounprotein