urea

noun

yu̇-ˈrē-ə 

: a soluble weakly basic nitrogenous compound CO(NH₂)₂ that is the chief solid component of mammalian urine and an end product of protein decomposition, is synthesized from carbon dioxide and ammonia, and is used especially in synthesis (as of resins and plastics) and in fertilizers and animal rations

Examples of urea in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Each pad is soaked in a silky, essence-y formula that plumps on contact with humectants like glycerin, hydroxyethyl urea, and betaine. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 Jan. 2026

Fascinatingly, this strategy is strikingly similar to those of sharks and rays, which also retain their urea to account for the salinity of seawater. —Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026

Avoid using products that contain urea, which can cause root burn, and don’t fertilize in winter when these plants aren’t actively growing. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Jan. 2026

Look for urea-free fertilizer that helps the plant absorb nitrogen more efficiently, and make sure to flush out the potting medium with plain water each month to prevent salt buildup that can harm the roots. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 8 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from French urée, from urine

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing urea

• urea-formaldehyde

Rhymes for urea

• chia
• mia
• pia
• rhea
• shia
• stria
• thea
• zia
• aliya
• aliyah
• althea
• apnoea

Kids Definition

urea

noun

yu̇-ˈrē-ə 

: a soluble nitrogen-containing compound that is the chief solid substance in the urine of mammals and is an end product of protein breakdown

Medical Definition

urea

noun

yu̇-ˈrē-ə 

: a soluble weakly basic nitrogenous compound CH₄N₂O that is the chief solid component of mammalian urine and an end product of protein decomposition and that is administered intravenously as a diuretic drug

called also carbamide