oxidase

noun

ox·​i·​dase ˈäk-sə-ˌdās How to pronounce oxidase (audio)
-ˌdāz
: any of various enzymes that catalyze oxidations
especially : one able to react directly with molecular oxygen
oxidasic
ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-sik How to pronounce oxidase (audio)
-zik
adjective

Examples of oxidase 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.
This is due to polyphenol oxidase, an enzyme found in potatoes (and many other vegetables). — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 4 Feb. 2026 The culprit is an enzyme called polyphenol oxidase, or PPO, which is abundant in bananas. — Allison Palmer updated June 13, Sacbee.com, 13 June 2026 The study focuses on how bananas, which are high in polyphenol oxidase, can decrease the absorption of flavan-3-ols, which are a type of flavonoids that boast many health benefits. — Heather Riske, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Jan. 2026 Elevated triglycerides and a fatty acid called palmitate also impaired an enzyme called lysyl oxidase, which maintains the structure of the aortic wall, the team found. — Brianna Abbott, STAT, 7 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for oxidase

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of oxidase was in 1896

Phrases Containing oxidase

Rhymes for oxidase

See All Rhymes for oxidase

Browse Nearby Words

oxidant
oxidase
oxidasic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Medical Definition

oxidase

noun
ox·​i·​dase ˈäk-sə-ˌdās, -ˌdāz How to pronounce oxidase (audio)
: any of various enzymes that catalyze oxidations
especially : one able to react directly with molecular oxygen

More from Merriam-Webster on oxidase

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oxidase

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