1. a salt or ester of glutamic acid, especially monosodium glutamate used as a flavor enhancer in food
Usage: chemistry; food science
2. an important neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a key role in learning and memory
Usage: neuroscience; biology

Examples

• Many Asian restaurants use glutamate to enhance the umami flavor of their dishes.
• The food label listed monosodium glutamate as an ingredient.
• Scientists study how glutamate functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain.
• Excessive glutamate activity can damage nerve cells.
• The chef avoided adding glutamate to accommodate customers with sensitivities.
• Glutamate receptors are crucial for synaptic transmission.
• Some people report headaches after consuming foods high in glutamate.