caffeine

[ ka-feen, kaf-een, kaf-ee-in ]

noun

1. Chemistry, Pharmacology. a white, crystalline, bitter alkaloid, C 8 H 10 N 4 O 2 , usually derived from coffee or tea: used in medicine chiefly as a nervous system stimulant.
2. Informal. a drink, usually coffee or tea, containing this stimulant:

   We sipped our caffeine on the balcony with its views of sea stacks, rocky coves, and the ever-changing ocean.

caffeine

/ ˈkæfiːn; ˈkæfɪˌiːn /

noun

1. a white crystalline bitter alkaloid responsible for the stimulant action of tea, coffee, and cocoa: a constituent of many tonics and analgesics. Formula: C 8 H 10 N 4 O 2 See also xanthine

caffeine

/ kă-fēn′ /

1. A bitter white alkaloid found in tea leaves, coffee beans, and various other plant parts. It is a mild stimulant. Caffeine is a xanthine and similar in structure to theobromine and theophylline. Chemical formula: C 8 H 10 N 4 O 2 .

Other Words From

• caf·fein·ic [ka-, fee, -nik, kaf-ee-, in, -ik], adjective
• non·caf·feine noun
• non·caf·fein·ic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of caffeine¹

First recorded in 1820–30; from French caféine, equivalent to café coffee + -ine -ine ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of caffeine¹

C19: from German Kaffein, from Kaffee coffee

Example Sentences

However, the newcomers intend to replicate one of the world’s most popular beverages from taste, to caffeine punch, to drinking experience – and the first of this nascent industry’s beanless concoctions have begun to appear.

From BBC

Aside from increasing alertness, caffeine has also demonstrated antioxidant effects and some protection against a range of chronic and neurodegenerative diseases.

From Salon

Running on adrenaline and continuous infusions of caffeine, its analysts and data scientists were glued to their monitors around the clock, watching the slow trickle of results from Pennsylvania that ultimately would decide the race.

From Los Angeles Times

Powered by caffeine, begin your hike along the beach or the paved walking path to Palm Street, where you’ll turn left.

From Los Angeles Times

Warrier said there are an array of factors that can lead to the condition, including excessive stress and caffeine consumption, as well as structural issues of the heart.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cappuccino
• espresso