# whey

/ˈhweɪ/ (US) · /wˈeɪ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/whey
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

the watery part of milk that stays behind after the solid parts turn into cheese. It is often used in protein powders for athletes.

For teachers: the watery liquid that remains after milk has been curdled and strained during the cheesemaking process. Often processed into powder for use as a dietary supplement.

## Examples

- The cheesemaker separated the solid curds from the liquid whey.
- Many athletes consume whey protein shakes after a workout to help their muscles recover more quickly.
- In traditional dairy production, whey was often treated as a waste product, but modern industrial techniques now extract its valuable proteins for use in a wide range of processed foods.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the substance; can be countable when referring to specific types or varieties of the protein.

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