whey

noun

ˈ(h)wā 

: the watery part of milk that is separated from the coagulable part or curd especially in the process of making cheese and that is rich in lactose, minerals, and vitamins and contains lactalbumin and traces of fat

wheylike

ˈ(h)wā-ˌlīk 

adjective

Examples of whey in a Sentence

The curd has separated from the whey.

Recent Examples on the Web

Miner explained that regular whey protein contains slightly more micronutrients, such as calcium and potassium, and calories because of its carbohydrate content. —Mira Miller, Verywell Health, 4 Mar. 2026

Both whey and plant protein support muscle growth and daily protein needs. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 26 Feb. 2026

Tiess says separating the curds from the whey is a process that has been practiced for thousands of years as a way to preserve the protein from milk. —Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 23 Feb. 2026

Infused with Japanese white peony, known for its moisture-retaining properties, plus silk protein and peptide-rich whey protein, Tatcha’s cushiony eye cream is designed to melt away the look of wrinkles while visibly firming. —Tracy Perez Han, InStyle, 20 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English hwæg; akin to Middle Dutch wey whey

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing whey

• whey-face

Rhymes for whey

• ay
• bay
• bey
• brae
• cay
• chez
• dey
• dray
• fay
• fey
• flay
• fray

Kids Definition

whey

noun

ˈhwā 

ˈwā

: the watery part of milk that separates after the milk has soured and thickened especially in the process of making cheese compare curd sense 1

Medical Definition

whey

noun

ˈhwā  ˈwā 

: the serum or watery part of milk that is separated from the coagulable part or curd especially in the process of making cheese and that is rich in lactose, minerals, and vitamins and contains lactalbumin and traces of fat