tryptophan

[ trip-tuh-fan ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. an essential amino acid, (C 8 H 6 N)CH 2 CH(NH 2 )COOH, colorless, crystalline, and aromatic, released from proteins by tryptic digestion and a precursor of serotonin. : Trp; : W

tryptophan

/ ˈtrɪptəˌfæn /

noun

1. an essential amino acid; a component of proteins necessary for growth

tryptophan

/ trĭp′tə-făn′ /

1. An essential amino acid. Chemical formula: C 11 H 12 N 2 O 2 .
2. See more at amino acid

Word History and Origins

Origin of tryptophan¹

1900–05; trypto- (irregular combining form representing Greek trīptós “rubbed”) + -phan(e) ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of tryptophan¹

C20: from trypt ( ic ) + -o + -phan variant of -phane

Example Sentences

The research reveals how dietary tryptophan -- an amino acid found mostly in animal products, nuts, seeds, whole grains and legumes -- can be broken down by gut bacteria into small molecules called metabolites.

From Science Daily

Many people think of tryptophan as the ingredient in turkey that supposedly makes us sleepy after a Thanksgiving feast.

From Science Daily

Their method targets the amino acid tryptophan in fertilizer, which is vital for plant growth and development.

From Science Daily

Milk can be especially beneficial for sleep, as it contains the amino acid tryptophan, which can promote melatonin production.

From Salon

Fiber-rich foods like beans and oatmeal and certain protein sources – especially those that are high in the amino acid tryptophan, such as poultry – are also associated with higher-quality sleep.

From Salon