protein

 
Pronunciation: /ˈprəʊtiːn/

noun

  • any of a class of nitrogenous organic compounds which have large molecules composed of one or more long chains of amino acids and are an essential part of all living organisms, especially as structural components of body tissues such as muscle, hair, etc., and as enzymes and antibodies: a protein found in wheat animal proteins
  • [mass noun] proteins collectively, especially as a dietary component: a diet high in protein

Derivatives

proteinaceous

Pronunciation: /-ˈneɪʃəs/
adjective

proteinic

Pronunciation: /-ˈtiːnɪk/
adjective

proteinous

Pronunciation: /-ˈtiːnəs, -ˈtiːɪnəs/
adjective

Origin:

mid 19th century: from French protéine, German Protein, from Greek prōteios 'primary', from prōtos 'first'

Spelling help

Remember that protein is spelled with the e before the i: it does not follow the rule of i before e except after c.

it is essential to include protein in your diet.