: a common form of diabetes mellitus that develops especially in adults and most often in obese individuals and that is characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from impaired insulin utilization coupled with the body's inability to compensate with increased insulin production

called also non-insulin-dependent diabetes, non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes mellitus

Examples of type 2 diabetes in a Sentence

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Alongside a healthy diet, this can help manage the risk of type 2 diabetes. Embry Roberts, Martha Stewart, 2 July 2026 Despite his young age and fitness level, he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Moira McCarthy, Boston Herald, 24 June 2026 Choosing lean cuts of red meat and limiting portions can help reduce the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Md Published, Verywell Health, 2 July 2026 Multiple studies have concluded that late-in-the-day exercise may lead to greater blood sugar control for people with type 2 diabetes. Jenessa Connor, Health, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for type 2 diabetes

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of type 2 diabetes was in 1982

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Cite this Entry

“Type 2 diabetes.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/type%202%20diabetes. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

: diabetes mellitus of a common form that develops especially in adults and most often in obese individuals and that is characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from impaired insulin utilization coupled with the body's inability to compensate with increased insulin production

called also adult-onset diabetes, late-onset diabetes, maturity-onset diabetes, non-insulin-dependent diabetes, non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes mellitus

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