insulin resistance

noun

: reduced sensitivity to insulin by the body's insulin-dependent processes (such as glucose uptake and lipolysis) that is typical of type 2 diabetes but often occurs in the absence of diabetes

Examples of insulin resistance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In fact, even short-term sleep loss—just a night or two of tossing and turning—can impact insulin resistance and intensify sweet treat cravings. —Julia Ries Wexler, Health, 24 Sep. 2025

Normal obesity causes macrophages in fat tissue to shift toward a pro-inflammatory state, which drives insulin resistance. —New Atlas, 23 Sep. 2025

Determined to get her symptoms in check, Schweers started taking inositol, a supplement shown to improve insulin resistance and enhance egg quality, and a series of other supplements. —Essence, 19 Sep. 2025

Research suggests low magnesium levels are linked to a higher risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. —Verywell Health, 18 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for insulin resistance

• magnetoresistance
• assistance
• consistence
• desistance
• existence
• insistence
• persistence
• subsistence
• coexistence
• nonexistence
• distance

Medical Definition

insulin resistance

noun

: reduced sensitivity to insulin by the body's insulin-dependent processes (as glucose uptake, lipolysis, and inhibition of glucose production by the liver) that results in decreased activity of these processes or an increase in insulin production or both and that is typical of type 2 diabetes but often occurs in the absence of diabetes