urea

noun

yu̇-ˈrē-ə 

: 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

The Gulf supplies 30 to 35 percent of global urea, and roughly 30 percent of fertilizer trade normally passes through Hormuz, as FAO Chief Economist Máximo Torero has laid out in the organization's analysis of the conflict. — Ingmar Rentzhog, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

When protein is digested, the end metabolic product, called urea, is produced in the liver, and excess urea can lead to kidney issues. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 31 July 2026

It's formulated with barrier-strengthening ceramides, moisturizing shea butter, gently exfoliating urea, and lactic acid. — Essence Wiley, InStyle, 24 June 2026

Data from the commodities group Argus showed that the price of urea, a key ingredient for fertilizer, has fallen 50% from the peak prices seen in April. — Rob Wile, NBC news, 22 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from French urée, from urine

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing urea

• urea-formaldehyde

Rhymes for urea

• chia
• mia
• pia
• rhea
• shia
• stria
• thea
• zia
• aliya
• aliyah
• althea
• apnoea

Kids Definition

urea

noun

yu̇-ˈrē-ə 

: 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

yu̇-ˈrē-ə 

: 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