carbohydrate

noun

car·​bo·​hy·​drate ˌkär-bō-ˈhī-ˌdrāt 

-drət

: any of various neutral compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (such as sugars, starches, and celluloses) most of which are formed by green plants and which constitute a major class of animal foods

Examples of carbohydrate in a Sentence

a food that is low in protein but high in carbohydrate

Recent Examples on the Web

Casein and whey proteins work with milk's carbohydrates and fats to provide feelings of fullness, while bioactive peptides can regulate appetite hormones. —Randi Gollin, Martha Stewart, 3 May 2026

In addition to carbohydrates and fiber, pita bread contains several essential nutrients. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 3 May 2026

Pretzels supply carbohydrates for energy, while hummus adds a small amount of protein and fat. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 1 May 2026

Spaghetti squash contains significantly fewer calories and carbohydrates than traditional pasta. —Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 1 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing carbohydrate

• complex carbohydrate

Rhymes for carbohydrate

• abbreviate
• accelerate
• accommodate
• accumulate
• acuminate
• adjudicate
• adulterate
• affiliate
• agglomerate
• agglutinate
• alleviate
• amalgamate

Kids Definition

carbohydrate

noun

car·​bo·​hy·​drate ˌkär-bō-ˈhī-ˌdrāt 

-drət

: any of various compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (as sugars, starches, or celluloses) most of which are formed by plants and are a major animal food

Medical Definition

carbohydrate

noun

car·​bo·​hy·​drate -ˌdrāt, -drət 

: any of various neutral compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (as sugars, starches, and celluloses) most of which are formed by green plants and which constitute a major class of animal foods