GLP

abbreviation or noun

plural GLPs
: either of two intestinal hormones secreted together when nutrients (such as carbohydrates and lipids) are present in the small intestine:
a
or GLP-1 : one that stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon secretion, slows the movement of stomach contents into the small intestine, and promotes feelings of satiety : glucagon-like peptide-1
After a meal, the body releases GLP-1 to signal satiety and stimulate insulin-secreting beta cells in the pancreas.Nathan Seppa
b
or GLP-2 : one that stimulates cell proliferation in the intestinal mucosa and has little effect on insulin secretion : glucagon-like peptide-2

Examples of GLP 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.
During this time, a surge in GLP prescriptions for the treatment of obesity in this age group is expected. Amy Anderson, Hartford Courant, 26 June 2026 The sovereign wealth fund will initially invest $500 million to accelerate GLP’s development of facilities that will benefit from the e-commerce boom, increasing adoption of AI and cloud computing, and the transition into renewable energy, according to a statement released on Thursday. Yessar Rosendar, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of GLP was in 1983

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“GLP.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/GLP. Accessed 4 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

GLP

abbreviation
glucagon-like peptide
often used with the number 1 or 2 to indicate the specific peptide
GLP-1
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster