gluten

noun

glu·​ten ˈglü-tᵊn 

: a tenacious elastic protein substance especially of wheat flour that gives cohesiveness to dough

glutenous

ˈglü-tə-nəs 

ˈglüt-nəs

adjective

Examples of gluten in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Per the company, every blend is made with real fruit extracts and contains no gluten, sugar, artificial flavors or preservatives. —Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 7 May 2026

Both options are naturally gluten-free, but oats are more likely to be cross-contaminated with gluten. —Mira Miller, Verywell Health, 4 May 2026

Starting at $79, choose from multiple options for each course (including gluten-free and vegan options). —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Apr. 2026

Those seeds are gluten-free, high in protein, and have an earthy, nutty, somewhat sweet flavor. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin glutin-, gluten glue — more at clay

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for gluten

• pluton
• rutin

Kids Definition

gluten

noun

glu·​ten ˈglüt-ᵊn 

: a tough elastic protein substance in flour especially from wheat that holds together dough and makes it sticky

Medical Definition

gluten

noun

glu·​ten ˈglüt-ᵊn 

: a gluey protein substance especially of wheat flour that causes dough to be sticky

glutenous

ˈglüt-nəs, -ᵊn-əs 

adjective