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

Beef is a high-quality source of protein, providing all nine essential amino acids the body can't make on its own. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 15 July 2025

When used as a supplement in moderation, protein powders are like an insurance policy that ensures your body has enough of all its essential amino acids, the building blocks of life. —Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 12 June 2025

Depositphotos View 1 Images By eliminating the essential amino acid cysteine from the diets of mice, and disabling their ability to produce it, scientists have induced rapid and dramatic weight loss. —Michael Franco may 21, New Atlas, 21 May 2025

The protein in quinoa contains all the essential amino acids needed for healthy muscles and bones. —Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 12 July 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