uric acid

noun

1. Biochemistry. a compound, C 5 H 4 N 4 O 3 , present in mammalian urine in small amounts, and the principal nitrogenous component of the excrement of reptiles and birds, that in the form of its salts occurs in the joints in gout and as the major constituent of kidney stones.
2. Chemistry. a white, crystalline, odorless, tasteless, very slightly water-soluble powder form of this compound, obtained chiefly from urine or bird excrement or synthesized, used chiefly in organic synthesis.

uric acid

noun

1. a white odourless tasteless crystalline product of protein metabolism, present in the blood and urine; 2,6,8-trihydroxypurine. Formula: C 5 H 4 N 4 O 3

uric acid

/ yr′ĭk /

1. The chief nitrogen-containing waste product excreted in the urine of birds, insects, and most reptiles. It is produced by the breakdown of amino acids in the liver. Uric acid is also produced in small quantities in humans by the breakdown of purines, and elevated levels in the blood can lead to gout. Chemical formula: C 5 H 4 N 4 O 3 .

Other Words From

• uric-acid adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of uric acid¹

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

Along with uric acid, glomerular filtration rate is a key measure of kidney health.

From Science Daily

Once uric acid crystals build up in joints and tissues, they can cause pain, swelling and redness, often starting in the big toe, but can spread to ankles, knees and other joints.

From Seattle Times

In addition to temperature and pH, the bandage's biosensor monitors levels of ammonium, glucose, lactate and uric acid; together these measurements provide information about inflammation, infection and stage of healing.

From Scientific American

Gout is associated with high levels of uric acid.

From Seattle Times

Birds that ingested more plastic had lower blood calcium levels, along with higher levels of cholesterol and uric acid. 

From Scientific American