Alkaloid Definition
ălkə-loid
alkaloids
noun
Any of various organic compounds normally with basic chemical properties and usually containing at least one nitrogen atom in a heterocyclic ring, occurring chiefly in many vascular plants and some fungi. Many alkaloids, such as nicotine, quinine, cocaine, and morphine, are known for their poisonous or medicinal attributes.
American Heritage
Any of a number of heterocyclic, colorless, crystalline, bitter organic substances, such as caffeine, morphine, quinine, and strychnine, having alkaline properties and containing nitrogen: they are found in plants and, sometimes, animals, and are used as drugs and stimulants, but can have a strong toxic effect on the human or animal system.
Webster's New World
Any of various organic compounds that are usually basic and contain at least one nitrogen atom in a heterocyclic ring, occurring chiefly in flowering plants. Many alkaloids, such as nicotine, quinine, cocaine, and morphine, are known for their poisonous or medicinal attributes.
American Heritage Medicine
(organic chemistry) Any of many organic heterocyclic bases, that occur in nature and often have medicinal properties.
Wiktionary
adjective
Relating to, resembling, or containing alkali.
Wiktionary
Other Word Forms of Alkaloid
Noun
Singular:
alkaloidPlural:
alkaloidsOrigin of Alkaloid
-
alkali + -oid. Compare French alcaloïde.
From Wiktionary
alkal(i) –oid
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
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