essential amino acid

noun

: any of various amino acids that are required for normal health and growth in many vertebrates, are either not manufactured in the body or manufactured in insufficient quantities, are usually supplied by dietary protein, and include histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine compare nonessential amino acid

Examples of essential amino acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Eggs themselves are not a source of collagen—but the egg white specifically contains proline and glycine, two essential amino acids for proper collagen production. —Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 1 July 2025

The seeds contain all nine essential amino acids, making amaranth among the most protein-dense edible plants on earth. —Michael Shaikh june 25, Literary Hub, 25 June 2025

Nine essential amino acids—histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine—are available only through foods or supplements. —Stacey Colino, Time, 27 May 2025

Many bean varieties contain all the essential amino acids that are vital for supporting a child’s energy, growth and active lifestyle. —Dr. Kelly Fradin, CNBC, 20 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1911, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for essential amino acid

• antacid
• placid

Kids Definition

essential amino acid

noun

: an amino acid that is necessary for proper growth of the animal body and that cannot be made by the body in sufficient amounts but must be obtained from food containing proteins

Medical Definition

essential amino acid

noun

: any of various alpha-amino acids that are required for normal health and growth, are either not manufactured in the body or manufactured in insufficient quantities, are usually supplied by dietary protein, and in humans include histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine