English · Body & Health
carbohydrate
/ˌkɑːr.boʊˈhaɪ.dreɪt/
[/ˌkɑːr.boʊˈhaɪ.dreɪt/]
energy-giving nutrient
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A nutrient found in foods like bread, rice, and pasta that the body uses as its main source of energy.
Example
Runners often eat a meal rich in carbohydrates the night before a long race for energy.
Runners often eat a meal rich in carbohydrates the night before a long race for energy.
Etymology
From 'carbo-' (carbon) and 'hydrate' (water), reflecting the chemical composition of these compounds.
How & Where It’s Used
Used in nutrition and diet contexts, often shortened to 'carbs' in casual speech.