chitin

noun chi·tin \ˈkī-t^ən\

Definition of CHITIN

: a horny polysaccharide (C₈H₁₃NO₅)_n that forms part of the hard outer integument especially of insects, arachnids, and crustaceans

— chi·tin·ous \ˈkī-t^ən-əs, ˈkīt-nəs\ adjective

See chitin defined for kids

French chitine, from Greek chitōn

First Known Use: circa 1839

Medical Dictionary

noun chi·tin \ˈkīt-^ən\

: a horny polysaccharide that forms part of the hard outer integument especially of insects, arachnids, and crustaceans

—chi·tin·ous \ˈkīt-^ən-əs, ˈkīt-nəs\ adjective

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