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leptin

noun

lep·​tin ˈlep-tən How to pronounce leptin (audio)
: a peptide hormone that is produced by fat cells and plays a role in body weight regulation by acting on the hypothalamus to suppress appetite and burn fat stored in adipose tissue

Examples of leptin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Most of his peers were focused on GLP-1, or leptin, or other peptides—molecules made of the same building blocks as proteins, but smaller. Roxanne Khamsi, The Atlantic, 19 Nov. 2025 This brain signaling pattern reduced appetite independently of leptin, another satiety hormone. New Atlas, 14 Oct. 2025 In late September 2020, a Mass General endocrinologist called with the test results: Ben had a leptin deficiency. Wendy Grossman Kantor, People.com, 7 Aug. 2025 Sleep deprivation is also associated with disruptions in appetite-regulating hormones (ghrelin and leptin), which often increases cravings for sugary, nutrient-poor foods.12 2. Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for leptin

Word History

Etymology

Greek leptos slender + English -in entry 1

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of leptin was in 1995

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Leptin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leptin. Accessed 30 Nov. 2025.

Medical Definition

leptin

noun
lep·​tin ˈlep-tən How to pronounce leptin (audio)
: a peptide hormone that is produced by fat cells and plays a role in body weight regulation by acting on the hypothalamus to suppress appetite and burn fat stored in adipose tissue

More from Merriam-Webster on leptin

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