: a salt or ester of propionic acid

Examples of propionate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The Pro-Retinol Body Cream Serum extends those benefits below the neck, thanks to retinyl propionate, a gentle retinol derivative that boosts cellular turnover and collagen production. — Madison San Miguel, Allure, 23 Oct. 2026 This process yields short-chain fatty acids, such as acetate, butyrate, and propionate, which serve as an energy source for cells lining the colon, strengthen the intestinal barrier, regulate inflammation, and influence systemic metabolism. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 Aug. 2026 These microbes help produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate, which support intestinal barrier integrity and immune regulation. — Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 3 Aug. 2026 The main types of short chain fatty acids are acetate, propionate and butyrate. — Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for propionate

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propionate was in 1856

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Cite this Entry

“Propionate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propionate. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Medical Definition

propionate

noun
: a salt or ester of propionic acid
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