tyrosine

noun

ty·​ro·​sine ˈtī-rə-ˌsēn How to pronounce tyrosine (audio)
: a phenolic amino acid C9H11NO3 that is a precursor of several important substances (such as epinephrine and melanin)

Examples of tyrosine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ingredients like copper peptide, tyrosine, and certain antioxidants are being studied for their potential benefits in preserving natural pigment. Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 19 Feb. 2026 These arginine-tyrosine interactions remain active as the fiber solidifies. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 6 Feb. 2026 Neurons at the brain’s base produce it in a two-step process: first, the amino acid tyrosine is converted into L-dopa; then, enzymes transform L-dopa into dopamine. Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025 Similar to Parmigiano but creamier, the cheese has been crafted and aged in Switzerland for centuries and is famed for its dense, fudgy texture with crunchy tyrosine crystals. Julia Eskins, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tyrosine

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, irregular from Greek tyros cheese — more at butter

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tyrosine was in 1857

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Cite this Entry

“Tyrosine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tyrosine. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.

Medical Definition

tyrosine

noun
ty·​ro·​sine ˈtī-rə-ˌsēn How to pronounce tyrosine (audio)
: a phenolic amino acid C9H11NO3 that is a precursor of several important substances (as epinephrine and melanin)
abbreviation Tyr

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