Meaning & Definition of word "Lactose"
to
Lactose
/ˈlæk.toʊs/
noun:
- 1. A sugar present in milk and dairy products, consisting of one glucose and one galactose molecule.
- Example: Lactose is the main carbohydrate found in milk.
- 2. A disaccharide that is broken down in the body by the enzyme lactase.
- Example: People who are lactose intolerant have difficulty digesting lactose.
- 3. A common additive in processed foods that contain dairy.
- Example: Many processed foods, even those that are not dairy-based, can contain lactose.
- 4. A source of energy for certain bacteria in the intestines.
- Example: In some gut bacteria, lactose serves as a fermentable carbohydrate.
Etymology
From the Latin 'lac' meaning 'milk' and the suffix '-ose' used to denote sugars.
Common Phrases and Expressions
lactose intolerance:
A condition in which the body cannot easily digest lactose.
lactose-free:
Products that have been processed to remove lactose.
Related Words
lactase:
An enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.
dairy:
Food products made from milk, which contains lactose.
Slang Meanings of lactose
Meaning: Lactose bomb
Example Sentence: I just had a lactose bomb for breakfast with that cream cheese!
Meaning: Dairy demon
Example Sentence: I can't eat ice cream; my lactose sensitivity turns me into a dairy demon.