Definition

Relating to or resembling starch, often used in a medical context to describe certain proteins that can form deposits in tissues.

Example

The amyloid deposits were found in the patient's organs during the examination.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new study on amyloid substances?

No, I haven't! What does it say?

It discusses how amyloid proteins can affect our health over time.

That's interesting! I wonder how it relates to diet.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A waxy substance made mostly of protein that can build up in some organs and tissues, often associated with certain diseases like Alzheimer's.

Example

Amyloid deposits can be found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease.

Conversation

Have you heard about amyloid buildup in the brain?

Yeah, I read that it can be linked to Alzheimer's disease.

It's really concerning how it affects memory and cognition.

Root Explanation

Amyloid is derived from the Greek "amylon" (meaning starch) and the suffix "-oid" (meaning resembling or like). The term originally referred to substances that resemble starch in appearance, particularly in the context of certain proteins that accumulate in tissues.

Memory Tip

Think of 'amylon' which means starch, and remember that 'amyloid' refers to substances that look like starch.

Visually Confused Words