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

What is the difference between whey protein isolate and concentrate? —Brianna Peters, Vogue, 26 May 2025

Many bottled protein waters include collagen or whey protein derived from animals, so vegans and vegetarians should seek out or make a version with pea, soy, or hemp protein. —Helen Carefoot, Verywell Health, 24 Feb. 2025

New research suggests overuse of products like whey powder or creatine may be affecting young people’s mental health as well as their their physical health. —Katie Camero, NBC News, 21 Feb. 2025

After fermentation, the mixture undergoes a filtering method called centrifugation to remove the liquids and whey. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 3 Feb. 2025

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