amylase
/ˈæmɪleɪs/
noun
- An enzyme found in saliva and pancreatic juice that helps break down starches into sugars during digestion.
- The doctor ordered a blood test to check her amylase levels for signs of pancreatitis.
- Amylase in your mouth starts breaking down the starch in bread as soon as you chew it.
- Some plants also produce amylase to convert stored starch into energy for sprouting.