: a waxy translucent substance consisting primarily of protein that is deposited in some animal organs and tissues under abnormal conditions (such as Alzheimer's disease) compare beta-amyloid
amyloid adjective

Examples of amyloid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The test measures biomarkers associated with amyloid plaques in the brain and is intended for adults age 55 and older who are already experiencing signs or symptoms of cognitive decline. Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 27 July 2026 Sorweid noted that results typically return within a couple of weeks, far faster than a spinal tap or amyloid PET scan, which can take months to schedule. Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 25 July 2026 Researchers did not find a significant association between segregation and amyloid beta levels, suggesting the effects may work through inflammation and neuronal injury pathways rather than amyloid buildup. Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 18 July 2026 Researchers calculated that higher p-tau217 levels at the beginning of the study were consistently linked with greater risk, even after adjusting for amyloid buildup. Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for amyloid

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amyloid was in 1866

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Cite this Entry

“Amyloid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amyloid. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

Medical Definition

amyloid

noun
am·​y·​loid
ˈam-ə-ˌlȯid
1
: a nonnitrogenous starchy food
2
: a waxy translucent substance consisting primarily of protein that is deposited in some animal organs and tissue under abnormal conditions (as in Alzheimer's disease) see beta-amyloid
amyloid adjective

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