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: a soluble weakly basic nitrogenous compound CO(NH2)2 that is the chief solid component of mammalian urine and an end product of protein decomposition, is synthesized from carbon dioxide and ammonia, and is used especially in synthesis (as of resins and plastics) and in fertilizers and animal rations
Examples of urea in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Lartey recommends looking out for the ingredient urea, an emollient (often found in moisturizers) that also softens and smooths the skin on the scalp.
—Jacqueline Kilikita, refinery29.com, 22 Oct. 2024
This fragrance-free formula focuses on replenishing moisture with its heavy-hitting mix of lipids, squalane, glycerin, urea, and amino acids, which the brand labels as its hydro lipid blend.
—Sarah Han, Allure, 30 Sep. 2024
There are four ways to test for H. pylori: a urea breath test, a stool antigen test, an upper endoscopy, and a blood test.
—Elizabeth Yuko, Health, 26 Sep. 2024
Solutions containing salicylic acid, urea, and other compounds can also help.
—Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 26 Sep. 2024
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Word History
Etymology
New Latin, from French urée, from urine
First Known Use
1806, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing urea
Dictionary Entries Near urea
Cite this Entry
“Urea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/urea. Accessed 9 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
urea
noun
: a soluble nitrogen-containing compound that is the chief solid substance in the urine of mammals and is an end product of protein breakdown
Medical Definition
urea
noun
: a soluble weakly basic nitrogenous compound CH4N2O that is the chief solid component of mammalian urine and an end product of protein decomposition and that is administered intravenously as a diuretic drug
called also carbamide
More from Merriam-Webster on urea
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about urea
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