macronutrient

noun

mac·​ro·​nu·​tri·​ent ˌma-krō-ˈnü-trē-ənt How to pronounce macronutrient (audio)
-ˈnyü-
: a chemical element or substance (such as potassium or protein) that is essential in relatively large amounts to the growth and health of a living organism compare micronutrient

Examples of macronutrient in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Protein is a macronutrient, meaning the body needs it in large amounts. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 20 June 2026 Many of these products source the macronutrient from whey, a byproduct of the cheesemaking process. — Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 21 June 2026 Users can also upload photos of meals for calorie and macronutrient assessments. — Bloomberg, Mercury News, 7 May 2026 Protein is a key macronutrient the body needs to build and maintain muscle, but omega-3 fatty acids and iron are also critical. — Kaitlin Sullivan, NBC news, 14 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for macronutrient

Word History

Etymology

macro- + nutrient entry 2

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of macronutrient was in 1942

Rhymes for macronutrient

See All Rhymes for macronutrient

Browse Nearby Words

macronucleus
macronutrient
macroorganism
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Medical Definition

macronutrient

noun
mac·​ro·​nu·​tri·​ent -ˈn(y)ü-trē-ənt How to pronounce macronutrient (audio)
: a substance (as a protein, carbohydrate, or fat) required in relatively large quantities for growth, energy, and health compare micronutrient

More from Merriam-Webster on macronutrient

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about macronutrient

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