alanine

noun

al·​a·​nine ˈa-lə-ˌnēn How to pronounce alanine (audio)
: a simple nonessential crystalline amino acid C3H7NO2

Examples of alanine 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.
Ingredients such as creatine and beta-alanine generally work through consistent use over time, not by getting into your system as quickly as possible. — Dr. Onaola Adedeji, ABC News, 13 Aug. 2026 Your Liver Enzyme Levels Could Improve Liver enzymes, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), are common markers of liver health. — Lindsey Desoto, Health, 26 June 2026 The beta-alanine also provides a mild boost, and creatine supports strength gains over time. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2026 Other ingredients, such as creatine and beta-alanine, may remain in the body longer but do not cause stimulation and are unlikely to be felt after a workout ends. — Morgan Pearson, Verywell Health, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for alanine

Word History

Etymology

German Alanin, irregular from Aldehyd aldehyde

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alanine was in 1850

Browse Nearby Words

Alania
alanine
Alans
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Alanine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alanine. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

alanine

noun
al·​a·​nine ˈal-ə-ˌnēn How to pronounce alanine (audio)
: an amino acid formed especially by the breakdown of proteins

Medical Definition

alanine

noun
al·​a·​nine ˈal-ə-ˌnēn How to pronounce alanine (audio)
: a simple nonessential crystalline amino acid C3H7NO2 formed especially by the hydrolysis of proteins
—abbreviation Ala

More from Merriam-Webster on alanine

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about alanine

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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