1. Simple sugars that cannot be broken down into smaller sugar units; the basic building blocks of carbohydrates, including glucose, fructose, and galactose.
Usage: Plural form; singular is monosaccharide.; Chemistry and biochemistry term.; Common in educational and scientific contexts.

Examples

• Glucose and fructose are monosaccharides found in fruits.
• The body breaks down complex carbohydrates into monosaccharides for energy.
• Monosaccharides are absorbed directly into the bloodstream during digestion.
• All monosaccharides contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms.
• The sweetness of honey comes from its high concentration of monosaccharides.
• Athletes consume monosaccharides quickly for rapid energy during intense exercise.