glucagon

noun

glu·​ca·​gon ˈglü-kə-ˌgän How to pronounce glucagon (audio)
: a protein hormone that is produced especially by the islets of Langerhans and that promotes an increase in the sugar content of the blood by increasing the rate of glycogen breakdown in the liver

Examples of glucagon 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.
In lab studies, specific plant chemicals called flavonoids have been shown to stimulate glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that regulates digestion and blood sugar levels. — Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 7 Aug. 2026 Retatrutide adds glucagon, which may increase energy expenditure and help the body burn fat. — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 6 Aug. 2026 Some peptides, such as insulin, human growth hormone and glucagon-like peptide-1, have delivered transformational therapeutic effects when administered to humans. — Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026 The once-weekly injection, which targets three hormone receptors in the body — GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon — is still in clinical trials, and FDA approval isn’t expected until sometime next year. — Rob Williams, EverydayHealth.com, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for glucagon

Word History

Etymology

gluc- + -agon (perhaps from Greek agōn, present participle of agein to lead, drive) — more at agent

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of glucagon was in 1923

Rhymes for glucagon

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Browse Nearby Words

gluc-
glucagon
glucagon-like peptide
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Glucagon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/glucagon. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

glucagon

noun
glu·​ca·​gon ˈglü-kə-ˌgän How to pronounce glucagon (audio)
: a protein hormone that is produced especially by the pancreatic islets of Langerhans and that promotes an increase in the sugar content of the blood by increasing the rate of breakdown of glycogen in the liver

called also hyperglycemic factor, hyperglycemic-glycogenolytic factor

More from Merriam-Webster on glucagon

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about glucagon

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