theanine

noun

the·​a·​nine ˈthē-ə-ˌnēn How to pronounce theanine (audio)
variants or L-theanine
: an amino acid C7H14N2O3 found especially in green tea and used as a dietary supplement
Green tea, which is rich in a depression-fighting amino acid called theanine, has previously been lauded for its health benefits.Camilla Turner

Examples of theanine in a Sentence

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However, matcha’s high levels of L-theanine, a calming amino acid, help balance caffeine’s stimulating effects. Jillian Kubala, Health, 19 Oct. 2025 This gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan tablet is also supercharged with L-theanine, another stress-balancing adaptogen, for total relaxation amidst the most turbulent of days. Brianna Peters, Vogue, 10 Oct. 2025 Some experts believe that L-theanine helps minimize blood sugar spikes associated with caffeine intake. Team Verywell Health, Verywell Health, 6 Oct. 2025 The new formula also includes L-theanine, a non-protein amino acid primarily found in green and black tea and some mushrooms, Healthline states. Greta Cross, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for theanine

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of theanine was in 1950

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Cite this Entry

“Theanine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theanine. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

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