glucose
2 synonyms and 0 antonyms for glucose, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A simple sugar that serves as a major source of energy for living cells.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use glucose
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
Borrowed via French from Ancient Greek gleukos, meaning "sweet wine" or "must" — reflecting its sweet taste.
Full origin of glucose →Frequently asked questions
What does “glucose” mean?
The word “glucose” means a simple sugar that serves as a major source of energy for living cells. In plain terms, a basic sugar the body uses for energy.
How do you pronounce “glucose”?
“Glucose” is pronounced GLOO-kohz (/ˈɡlu.koʊs/ in IPA).
How do you use “glucose” in a sentence?
Here is “glucose” used in a sentence: “The body breaks carbohydrates down into glucose for energy.”
What part of speech is “glucose”?
“Glucose” is a noun.
Where does the word “glucose” come from?
The word “glucose” comes from Ancient Greek. Borrowed via French from Ancient Greek gleukos, meaning "sweet wine" or "must" — reflecting its sweet taste.
Is “glucose” a common word?
“Glucose” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between glucose and sugar?
Glucose is one specific simple sugar, while "sugar" is a broader term covering many types, including glucose, fructose, and sucrose (table sugar, which is actually made of glucose and fructose joined together). Glucose is the primary simple sugar that living cells use directly for energy.
What is the difference between glucose and glycogen?
Glucose is the simple sugar that circulates in the blood and fuels cells directly, while glycogen is a larger storage molecule made of many glucose units linked together, kept in the liver and muscles for later use. The body breaks glycogen back down into glucose when energy is needed.
Why is glucose important for the human body?
Glucose serves as a major source of energy for living cells, powering essential processes throughout the body, including brain function. Blood glucose levels are carefully regulated by hormones such as insulin to keep this energy supply steady.