First Known Use: 1861
Dictionary
lecithin
noun lec·i·thin \ˈle-sə-thən\
Definition of LECITHIN
: any of several waxy hygroscopic phospholipids that are widely distributed in animals and plants, form colloidal solutions in water, and have emulsifying, wetting, and antioxidant properties; also : a mixture of or substance rich in lecithins
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Origin of LECITHIN
International Scientific Vocabulary, from Greek lekithos yolk of an egg
Medical Dictionary
lecithin
noun lec·i·thin \ˈles-ə-thən\
Medical Definition of LECITHIN
: any of several waxy hygroscopic phospholipids in which phosphatidic acid has formed an ester with choline and which are widely distributed in animals and plants, form colloidal solutions in water, and have emulsifying, wetting, and antioxidant properties; also : a mixture of or a substance rich in lecithins—called also phosphatidylcholine
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