carbohydrate

noun

car·​bo·​hy·​drate ˌkär-bō-ˈhī-ˌdrāt 

-drət

: any of various neutral compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (such as sugars, starches, and celluloses) most of which are formed by green plants and which constitute a major class of animal foods

Examples of carbohydrate in a Sentence

a food that is low in protein but high in carbohydrate

Recent Examples on the Web

Fiber-rich carbohydrates such as whole grains, beans, potatoes, corn and high-fiber cereals can also be helpful by stabilizing blood sugar and supporting digestion, while also delivering long-lasting energy. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026

Those containing more sugar and carbohydrates will spike your blood sugar more than those higher in protein and fiber. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 30 Jan. 2026

Clear protein is often lighter and easier to digest, while traditional whey generally contains more calories and carbohydrates, which may support satiety and higher calorie needs. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 30 Jan. 2026

Enter protein and fiber, both of which slow down the speed at which carbohydrates turn to sugar in the blood, helping to stabilize blood sugar. —Emma Yasinski, Time, 28 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing carbohydrate

• complex carbohydrate

Rhymes for carbohydrate

• abbreviate
• accelerate
• accommodate
• accumulate
• acuminate
• adjudicate
• adulterate
• affiliate
• agglomerate
• agglutinate
• alleviate
• amalgamate

Kids Definition

carbohydrate

noun

car·​bo·​hy·​drate ˌkär-bō-ˈhī-ˌdrāt 

-drət

: any of various compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (as sugars, starches, or celluloses) most of which are formed by plants and are a major animal food

Medical Definition

carbohydrate

noun

car·​bo·​hy·​drate -ˌdrāt, -drət 

: any of various neutral compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (as sugars, starches, and celluloses) most of which are formed by green plants and which constitute a major class of animal foods