Definition

A type of chemical compound that is a cyclic amide, related to lactones, and formed from amino acids when heated.

Example

Lactams are important in the development of certain antibiotics.

Conversation

I was reading about antibiotics and came across the term lactam.

Oh really? I've heard that word before, but I don't know much about it.

It's interesting how lactam compounds are used in some medications.

Yeah, I'd love to learn more about how they work!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lactam → It is formed from "lactis" (from Latin, meaning milk) and "-am" (a suffix used in chemistry to denote a specific type of compound). The word "lactam" refers to a cyclic amide derived from milk or milk proteins.

Memory Tip

Think of 'milk' ('lactis') when you hear 'lactam', as it relates to compounds derived from milk.

Visually Confused Words