Definition

A type of carbohydrate that is stored in the body, mainly in the liver and muscles, and can be converted into glucose for energy when needed.

Example

After a long workout, the body uses glycogen stored in the muscles for energy.

Conversation

Did you know that our bodies store energy as glycogen?

Really? I always thought it was just fat that we store.

Nope, glycogen is like the quick energy reserve for when we need it.

That makes sense! So, it's important for athletes, right?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Glycogen is formed from "glyco-" (from Greek "glykys", meaning sweet) and "-gen" (from Greek "genes", meaning born of or produced by). The word refers to a substance that is produced from sweet substances, specifically a form of stored glucose in the body.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sweet' ('glyco-') and something that is 'produced' ('-gen') in the body — glycogen is a substance produced from sweet sources like glucose.

Visually Confused Words