insulin resistance

noun

: reduced sensitivity to insulin by the body's insulin-dependent processes (such as glucose uptake and lipolysis) that is typical of type 2 diabetes but often occurs in the absence of diabetes

Examples of insulin resistance 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.
This can result in weight loss that produces improvements throughout the body, since excess fat tissue promotes inflammation and insulin resistance and can interfere with organ function. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026 This effect can be more noticeable in people with insulin resistance (cells do not respond as well to insulin, which signals them to take up glucose). — Brittany Poulson, Verywell Health, 26 Aug. 2026 High levels of circulating insulin can feed the little fibers that cause these to form and can be a sign of pre-diabetes and insulin resistance. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 18 Aug. 2026 This includes a blood pressure check, similar to Apple’s Hypertension notifications, as well as monitoring for insulin resistance. — Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for insulin resistance

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insulin resistance was in 1927

Rhymes for insulin resistance

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Browse Nearby Words

insulin-like growth factor
insulin resistance
insulin resistance syndrome
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Insulin resistance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insulin%20resistance. Accessed 31 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

insulin resistance

noun
: reduced sensitivity to insulin by the body's insulin-dependent processes (as glucose uptake, lipolysis, and inhibition of glucose production by the liver) that results in decreased activity of these processes or an increase in insulin production or both and that is typical of type 2 diabetes but often occurs in the absence of diabetes
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