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
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The authors note apoB is particularly valuable for patients with high triglycerides, insulin resistance or lower LDL-C levels, where traditional cholesterol numbers can be misleading. Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 26 June 2026 Certain metabolic issues such as insulin resistance, where the body’s cells stop responding properly to insulin, may also block semaglutide’s actions. Nadine Wehida, Scientific American, 25 June 2026 People with diabetes or insulin resistance may want to stick with unflavored powder or low-sugar capsules. Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026 Excessive intake of honey over time may lead to insulin resistance, which can cause blood sugar to spike after meals and snacks. Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for insulin resistance

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insulin resistance was in 1927

Cite this Entry

“Insulin resistance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insulin%20resistance. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

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
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