amino
Amino (adj) means relating to or containing an amine group, a nitrogen-based chemical structure found in many biological molecules. Example: “The lab tested the sample for amino compounds.”
How to use amino
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA chemistry term, most familiar to most people through "amino acids," the molecules that make up proteins.
Word forms
aminos plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The lab tested the sample for _____ compounds.
Etymology
From "amine," itself traced back to "ammonia," the pungent gas whose name comes from the Egyptian god Amun.
Synonyms
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See all rhymes for amino →Frequently asked questions
What does “amino” mean?
The word “amino” means relating to or containing an amine group, a nitrogen-based chemical structure found in many biological molecules. In plain terms, a chemistry term, most familiar to most people through "amino acids," the molecules that make up proteins.
How do you pronounce “amino”?
“Amino” is pronounced uh-MEE-noh (/əˈminoʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “amino” in a sentence?
Here is “amino” used in a sentence: “The lab tested the sample for amino compounds.”
What part of speech is “amino”?
Depending on how it is used, “amino” can be an adjective and a noun.
Is “amino” a common word?
“Amino” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “amino” have?
“Amino” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to or containing an amine group, a nitrogen-based chemical structure found in many biological molecules.
What is the difference between "amino" and "amino acid"?
"Amino" is an adjective describing something relating to or containing an amine group, a nitrogen-based chemical structure. "Amino acid" is a specific noun referring to one of the building blocks of proteins; "amino" is also used informally as a short form of "amino acid."
What is the relationship between amino acids and proteins?
Amino acids are the individual building blocks that link together to form proteins. This is why the informal noun sense of "amino" is used as shorthand for "amino acid" in casual or fitness-related contexts.
Is "amino" used as both a noun and an adjective?
Yes. As an adjective, "amino" describes something containing an amine group, as in "amino compound." As a noun, it is short for "amino acid," often used informally in nutrition or supplement contexts.
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