Glucose Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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glucose

[ˈɡluːkəʊs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

blood sugar level

Glucose is a type of sugar that is found in the blood and is the body's main source of energy. It is essential for the proper functioning of the brain, muscles, and other organs.

Synonyms

dextrose, sucrose, sugar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
glucose

Used in scientific, medical, and nutritional contexts to describe a simple sugar that is an important energy source in living organisms.

  • Glucose levels are often measured to monitor diabetes
  • During the marathon, runners need quick sources of glucose to stay energized
sugar

A general term used in everyday language to refer to sweet-tasting, soluble carbohydrates, often specifically to sucrose, but also to other forms of carbohydrates.

  • Can you pass the sugar for my coffee? Too much sugar in the diet can contribute to health problems
dextrose

Commonly used in medical and food industry contexts as another name for glucose. Often found in intravenous solutions and processed foods.

  • The patient was given an IV solution containing dextrose after the surgery
  • Dextrose can be found in many sports drinks to provide quick energy
sucrose

Used in everyday and scientific contexts to refer to common table sugar, which is a disaccharide composed of glucose and fructose.

  • Sucrose is often added to coffee and tea
  • Overconsumption of sucrose can lead to health issues like tooth decay and obesity

Examples of usage

  • Monitoring your glucose levels is important for managing diabetes.
  • Eating foods high in glucose can quickly raise your energy levels.
Context #2 | Noun

chemistry

In chemistry, glucose is a simple sugar with the molecular formula C6H12O6. It is a primary source of energy for living organisms and is commonly used as a sweetener in food and beverages.

Synonyms

dextrose, sucrose, sugar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
glucose

Scientific or medical settings when discussing blood sugar levels or metabolism.

  • Doctors often monitor a patient's glucose levels to manage diabetes
  • Glucose is a primary source of energy for cells
sugar

Everyday conversation to describe the sweet substance added to food and drinks or discussed in general health topics.

  • Can you pass the sugar for my coffee? Cutting down on sugar can help with weight management
dextrose

Used in medical environments, often to describe a specific type of glucose used in treatments like IV fluids.

  • Patients might receive an IV drip containing dextrose to help restore energy
  • Dextrose is used in many medications because it's easily metabolized
sucrose

Commonly used in food-related contexts to identify regular table sugar, especially in nutritional content discussions.

  • Nutrition labels may list sucrose as an ingredient
  • Sucrose is found in many sweetened beverages and desserts

Examples of usage

  • Glucose can be produced through the process of photosynthesis.
  • Many energy drinks contain high levels of glucose for quick energy boost.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'glucose'

The word 'glucose' is derived from the Greek word 'glukus', meaning 'sweet'. It was first discovered and isolated by the French chemist Etienne Ossian Henry in 1747. Glucose plays a vital role in human metabolism and is essential for the production of ATP, the body's main source of energy. It is commonly measured in blood tests to monitor diabetes and other health conditions.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,806, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.