betaine

noun

be·​ta·​ine ˈbē-tə-ˌēn 

: a sweet crystalline quaternary ammonium salt C₅H₁₁NO₂ obtained especially from sugar beets

also : its hydrate or its hydrochloride

Examples of betaine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

However, the specific amount of betaine in beet juice varies. — Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 14 Feb. 2025

Supports Heart Health Beet juice contains an amino acid called betaine, which may support heart health. — Lindsey Desoto, Health, 9 Sep. 2025

Its highly hydrating formula is packed with glycerin and betaine, a humectant that pulls moisture into the skin. — Sarah Felbin, Allure, 20 May 2026

The electrolytes, combined with organic compounds like betaine and inositol, help your skin retain moisture, strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, and balance your complexion, too. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 23 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from Latin beta beet

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for betaine

• abstain
• airplane
• alkane
• arcane
• arraign
• attain
• backplane
• biplane
• blockchain
• butane
• campaign
• cetane

Medical Definition

betaine

noun

be·​ta·​ine ˈbēt-ə-ˌēn 

: a sweet crystalline quaternary ammonium salt C₅H₁₁NO₂ that was first isolated in beet juice and is used to treat homocystinuria and is also used in the form of its hydrochloride C₅H₁₁NO₂·HCl as a source of hydrochloric acid especially to treat hypochlorhydria