glycogen

noun

gly·​co·​gen ˈglī-kə-jən 

: a white amorphous tasteless polysaccharide (C₆H₁₀O₅)_x that is the principal form in which glucose is stored in animal tissues and especially muscle and liver tissue

Examples of glycogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

However, people experiencing prediabetes, obesity, certain glycogen storage diseases and insulinoma may also use them based on recommendations from their healthcare providers. —Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 27 May 2026

People experiencing prediabetes, obesity, certain glycogen storage diseases and insulinoma may also use them based on recommendations from healthcare providers. —Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 27 May 2026

Key Takeaways Combining protein with complex carbohydrates helps restore glycogen stores depleted during exercise. —Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 15 May 2026

Sugars like glucose serve similar purposes, helping to replenish muscle glycogen as well. —Louryn Strampe, Wired News, 21 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1864, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

glycogen

noun

gly·​co·​gen ˈglī-kə-jən 

: a white tasteless substance that is the chief form in which glucose is stored in animals

Medical Definition

glycogen

noun

gly·​co·​gen ˈglī-kə-jən 

: a white amorphous tasteless polysaccharide (C₆H₁₀O₅)_x that constitutes the principal form in which glucose is stored in animal tissues, occurs especially in the liver and in muscle and also in fungi and yeasts, and resembles starch in molecular structure and in the formation of only glucose on complete hydrolysis

called also animal starch