peptide

noun

pep·​tide ˈpep-ˌtīd How to pronounce peptide (audio)
: any of various amides that are derived from two or more amino acids by combination of the amino group of one acid with the carboxyl group of another and are usually obtained by partial hydrolysis of proteins
peptidic
pep-ˈti-dik How to pronounce peptide (audio)
adjective

Examples of peptide 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.
Plus it’s enriched with peptides, delivered by an exosome technology, for skin renewal. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026 It’s formulated with niacinamide to brighten your complexion, panthenol to restore your skin’s barrier, and peptides to firm and smooth visible signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. — Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 10 Aug. 2026 Both Democrats and Republicans have failed to resolve basic questions about peptides. — Robert Pearl, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 Which collagen peptides brands stand out Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for peptide

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from peptone

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of peptide was in 1906

Phrases Containing peptide

Rhymes for peptide

See All Rhymes for peptide

Browse Nearby Words

peptidase
peptide
peptide bond
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Peptide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peptide. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

peptide

noun
pep·​tide ˈpep-ˌtīd How to pronounce peptide (audio)
: any of various substances that are usually obtained by the partial breakdown of proteins

Medical Definition

peptide

noun
pep·​tide ˈpep-ˌtīd How to pronounce peptide (audio)
: any of various amides that are derived from two or more amino acids by combination of the amino group of one acid with the carboxyl group of another and are usually obtained by partial hydrolysis of proteins
peptidic
pep-ˈtid-ik How to pronounce peptide (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on peptide

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about peptide

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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