Definition

A type of sugar alcohol that is white and crystalline, often used as a sweetener and in medical tests for kidney function.

Example

Mannitol is often used in hospitals to help patients with kidney issues.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of mannitol?

Yeah, I think it's used in some medical tests, right?

Exactly! It's also found in certain plants and has a sweet taste.

That’s interesting! I didn’t know it could be used as a sweetener too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mannitol is derived from 'mannose' (a type of sugar) and the suffix '-itol' (used to denote sugar alcohols). The word refers to a sugar alcohol derived from mannose, commonly used in medicine and food.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mannose' as a type of sugar, and remember that 'mannitol' is a sugar alcohol derived from it.

Visually Confused Words