alkaline phosphatase

noun

: any of the phosphatases that are optimally active in alkaline medium and occur in especially high concentrations in bone, the liver, the kidneys, and the placenta

Examples of alkaline phosphatase in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The investigation revealed that searching for liver test norms generated raw data tables (listing specific enzymes like ALT, AST, and alkaline phosphatase) that lacked essential context. — ArsTechnica, 12 Jan. 2026

Alternatively, you may be checked for gallstones, which can sometimes elevate alkaline phosphatase levels. — Brittany Risher, SELF, 6 Dec. 2024

But according to the new Food and Function study, eggs appear to activate a group of bodily enzymes called alkaline phosphatase, which can strengthen bones. — Sarah Garone, Health, 23 Mar. 2024

Strensiq replaces a deficient enzyme, alkaline phosphatase, and allows the bones to mineralize. — New York Times, 25 Aug. 2019

Word History

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for alkaline phosphatase

• abase
• airspace
• apace
• backspace
• biface
• birthplace
• blackface
• boldface
• bookcase
• braincase
• briefcase
• carcase

Medical Definition

alkaline phosphatase

noun

: any of the phosphatases that are enzymes active chiefly in alkaline medium and occur in especially high concentrations in bone, the liver, the kidneys, and the placenta

Normally, blood levels of alkaline phosphatase, which are a measure of bone cell growth and bone rebuilding, begin declining with age and remain very low throughout old age.

—Sally Squires, The Washington Post

Note: A test measuring the level of alkaline phosphatase in the blood serum is an important diagnostic indicator for diseases especially of the bone, liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts.

compare acid phosphatase