: any of numerous sugar derivatives that contain a nonsugar group bonded to an oxygen or nitrogen atom and that on hydrolysis yield a sugar (such as glucose)

Examples of glycoside in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The cardiac glycoside component sets oleander apart from other plants on this list. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Mar. 2026 Elderberry contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can be toxic and unappealing to deer. Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 14 Apr. 2026 That said, consumption of some species of raw bamboo was also associated with the production of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide. New Atlas, 20 Jan. 2026 The star ingredient is ascorbyl glycoside, a gentler form of vitamin C that brightens without irritation. Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29, 22 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for glycoside

Word History

Etymology

alteration of glucoside

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of glycoside was in 1855

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Cite this Entry

“Glycoside.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/glycoside. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

glycoside

noun
: any of numerous sugar derivatives that contain a nonsugar group attached through an oxygen or nitrogen bond and that on hydrolysis yield a sugar (as glucose)

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