: a reserve carbohydrate that is found in various protozoans and algae and resembles starch

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from para- + Latin amylum starch — more at amyl-

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paramylum was in 1874

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Cite this Entry

“Paramylum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paramylum. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

paramylum

noun
: a reserve carbohydrate of various protozoans and algae that resembles starch

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