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carbohydrate
noun
car·bo·hy·drate
ˌkär-bō-ˈhī-ˌdrāt
-drət
: any of various neutral compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (such as sugars, starches, and celluloses) most of which are formed by green plants and which constitute a major class of animal foods
Examples of carbohydrate in a Sentence
a food that is low in protein but high in carbohydrate
Recent Examples on the Web
Depending on the brand and type, protein, calcium, sugar, and carbohydrate content may also vary, so be sure to check the labels.
—
Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 3 Feb. 2025
The latest research and the experience of record-setting runners show that taking fuel—in the form of energy gels or other fast-acting carbohydrates—during long-distance efforts has big benefits for performance.
—
Cindy Kuzma, SELF, 28 Jan. 2025
The diet eliminates carbohydrates entirely, relying instead on proteins and fats for energy, all of which are from animal sources.
—
Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025
The nutrition experts recommend especially prioritizing low glycemic index carbohydrates such as legumes, whole grains, and tubers.
—
Vicky Vera, Glamour, 24 Jan. 2025
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Word History
First Known Use
1851, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing carbohydrate
Dictionary Entries Near carbohydrate
Cite this Entry
“Carbohydrate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carbohydrate. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
carbohydrate
noun
car·bo·hy·drate
ˌkär-bō-ˈhī-ˌdrāt
-drət
: any of various compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (as sugars, starches, or celluloses) most of which are formed by plants and are a major animal food
Medical Definition
carbohydrate
noun
car·bo·hy·drate
-ˌdrāt, -drət
: any of various neutral compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (as sugars, starches, and celluloses) most of which are formed by green plants and which constitute a major class of animal foods
More from Merriam-Webster on carbohydrate
Nglish: Translation of carbohydrate for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of carbohydrate for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about carbohydrate
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