heme

noun

ˈhēm 

: the deep red iron-containing prosthetic group C₃₄H₃₂N₄O₄Fe of hemoglobin and myoglobin

Examples of heme in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There are a number of reasons why red meat might be a problem, including the high heme iron content, plus the need to cook meat at high temperatures, which can produce carcinogenic compounds. —Bryant Stamford, Louisville Courier Journal, 23 Oct. 2025

Meanwhile, heme iron, which is found in red meat, can potentially lead to colon cancer by damaging the lining of the colon, some research suggests.5 Consuming sugary beverages regularly can contribute to obesity or excess weight, which are leading factors for heart disease. —Julia Ries, Health, 17 July 2025

The resulting amounts of heme circulating in the body influence other biological processes, including ones that could lead to the development of anemia and cancer. —Arun Durvasula, The Conversation, 14 May 2025

But the new species, like some other types of cable bacteria, is equipped with a cytochrome with two hemes. —Ritsuko Kawai, Wired News, 5 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from hematin

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

heme

noun

ˈhēm 

: a deep red pigment that contains iron and is obtained from hemoglobin

Medical Definition

heme

noun

variants or chiefly British haem

ˈhēm 

: the deep red iron-containing prosthetic group C₃₄H₃₂N₄O₄Fe of hemoglobin and myoglobin that is a ferrous derivative of protoporphyrin and readily oxidizes to hematin or hemin

called also protoheme