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

Key Takeaways Metabolically unhealthy normal weight is often associated with higher visceral fat, fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, and abnormal cholesterol levels. — Amy Brownstein, Verywell Health, 7 Aug. 2026

Weight loss is advised for early treatment to lower the risk of long-term health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, though the insulin resistance from PMOS can lead to weight gain. — Christina Perrier, InStyle, 5 Aug. 2026

Isoflavones may also help reduce inflammation, which is linked to insulin resistance. — Brianna Tobritzhofer, HEALTH, 3 Aug. 2026

Excess maternal sugar could also lead to insulin resistance and placental impairment, which can impact nutrient delivery and influence fetal brain development, says Sullivan. — Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 29 July 2026

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