inulin

noun

in·​u·​lin ˈin-yə-lən How to pronounce inulin (audio)
: a white, mildly sweet, indigestible polysaccharide that occurs chiefly in the roots or tubers of various plants (such as chicory or Jerusalem artichoke), that on hydrolysis yields levulose, and that is used as an additive in low-fat and low-sugar foods to improve the flavor and texture, and as a diagnostic agent in a test for kidney function

Examples of inulin 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.
There is no standard daily dosage of inulin for weight loss. Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 4 Aug. 2025 But if that’s a struggle, over-the-counter fiber supplements that include psyllium husk, inulin and methylcellulose can help. Akshay Syal, NBC news, 31 May 2025 Asparagus contains a type of prebiotic fiber called inulin, said Elizabeth Klingbeil, a dietitian and assistant professor at the University of Texas at Austin. Caroline Hopkins Legaspi, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025 The most common side effects of agave inulin are gastrointestinal issues, particularly gas and bloating. Isabel Vasquez Rd Ldn, Health, 17 July 2024 See All Example Sentences for inulin

Word History

Etymology

probably from German Inulin, from Latin inula elecampane

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inulin was in 1813

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Cite this Entry

“Inulin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inulin. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

inulin

noun
in·​u·​lin ˈin-yə-lən How to pronounce inulin (audio)
: a white mildly sweet plant polysaccharide that resists digestion in the stomach and small intestine, is extracted commercially especially from the roots and rhizomes of composite plants (as chicory), and is used as a source of levulose, as a diagnostic agent in a test for kidney function, and as a food additive to improve the flavor and texture of low-fat and low-sugar processed foods see oligofructose

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