insulin

noun

in·​su·​lin ˈin(t)-s(ə-)lən 

: a protein pancreatic hormone secreted by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans that is essential especially for the metabolism of carbohydrates and the regulation of glucose levels in the blood and that when insufficiently produced results in diabetes mellitus

Examples of insulin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Studies have shown that eating more resistant starch can improve gut health, lower inflammation in the body and enhance insulin sensitivity. —Brittney Melton, NPR, 14 May 2025

Standard doses of insulin can dangerously lower their blood sugar and cause severe complications, even death. —Fran Kritz, Verywell Health, 13 May 2025

As well as regulating the release of insulin in response to food, GIP receptors play a role in reducing appetite and enhancing feelings of fullness. —Paul McClure 12, New Atlas, 12 May 2025

This may benefit people with type 2 diabetes, a condition in which the body doesn't use insulin correctly, causing sugar to build up in the blood. —Anthea Levi, Health, 5 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin insula islet (of Langerhans), from Latin, island

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing insulin

• insulin-dependent diabetes
• insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
• insulin-like growth factor
• insulin resistance
• insulin resistance syndrome
• insulin shock
• non-insulin-dependent diabetes
• non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

Kids Definition

insulin

noun

in·​su·​lin ˈin(t)-s(ə-)lən 

: a hormone that is produced by the pancreas and is necessary for the normal use of glucose by the body

Medical Definition

insulin

noun

in·​su·​lin ˈin(t)-s(ə-)lən 

: a protein hormone that is synthesized in the pancreas from proinsulin and secreted by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans, that is essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, that regulates blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into tissues, by promoting its conversion into glycogen, fatty acids, and triglycerides, and by reducing the release of glucose from the liver, and that when produced in insufficient quantities results in diabetes mellitus see iletin