Definitions

1. noun

a quaternary ammonium compound, C5H11NO2, found in many living organisms, used as an osmotic protector and in the synthesis of other compounds.

“Betaine is commonly used as an ingredient in food products to maintain the osmotic balance of cells.”

2. noun

a nitrogenous base found in DNA and RNA.

“Betaine is an important component of the genetic material in many living organisms.”

3. verb

to treat with or as if with betaine.

“The crop was betained to help it withstand the extreme temperature fluctuations.”