xylitol

noun

xy·​li·​tol ˈzī-lə-ˌtȯl How to pronounce xylitol (audio) -ˌtōl How to pronounce xylitol (audio)
: a crystalline alcohol C5H12O5 that is a derivative of xylose, is obtained especially from birch bark, and is used as a sweetener

Examples of xylitol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The researchers noted these findings suggest a dose-dependent relationship, meaning the higher the xylitol levels, the higher the cardiovascular event rate. — Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026 The report also does not establish whether high levels of xylitol in the blood necessarily reflect dietary consumption, as the sugar alcohol can also be produced naturally in the body as part of glucose metabolism. — Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 31 Aug. 2026 The researchers discovered that higher circulating blood levels of xylitol were linked with a higher risk of major cardiovascular emergencies, including heart attack, stroke, and early death. — Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 26 Aug. 2026 Klein saw the gap and built the brand around chewing gum sweetened with xylitol instead. — Karl Moore, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for xylitol

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of xylitol was in 1891

Browse Nearby Words

xylindein
xylitol
xylo-ascorbic acid
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Xylitol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/xylitol. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

xylitol

noun
xy·​li·​tol ˈzī-lə-ˌtȯl How to pronounce xylitol (audio) -ˌtōl How to pronounce xylitol (audio)
: a crystalline alcohol C5H12O5 that is a derivative of xylose, is obtained especially from birch bark, and is used as a sweetener

More from Merriam-Webster on xylitol

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about xylitol

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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