Where does “tryptophan” come from?
Tryptophan derives from German Tryptophan, which combines Greek φαίνω (to show, appear) with Ancient Greek roots ultimately traceable to Proto-Indo-European bʰeh₂- (to shine, appear).
tryptophan (English): An essential amino acid having an indole side...
Definitions
- An essential amino acid having an indole side...
Ancestry of “tryptophan”, step by step
| Step | Language | Word | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | German | Tryptophan | tryptophan (amino acid) |
| 2 | Ancient Greek | φαίνω | I cause to appear, bring to light; I show,... |
| 3 | English | -type | impressed form; stamp; print; typical form; Used... |
| 4 | Ancient Greek | τύπος | A blow, pressing; The results of a blow: mark,... |
| 5 | Ancient Greek | τύπτω | to beat, strike, smite; to beat, strike oneself |
| 6 | Proto-Indo-European | (s)tewp- | to push, to stick |
| 7 | Proto-Indo-European | (s)tew- | to push, to hit |