First Known Use: 1910
Dictionary
porphyrin
noun por·phy·rin \ˈpȯr-fə-rən\
Definition of PORPHYRIN
: any of various compounds with a macrocyclic structure that consists essentially of four pyrrole rings joined by four =CH− groups; especially : one (as chlorophyll or hemoglobin) containing a central metal atom and usually exhibiting biological activity
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Origin of PORPHYRIN
International Scientific Vocabulary, from Greek porphyra purple
Medical Dictionary
porphyrin
noun por·phy·rin \ˈpȯr-fə-rən\
Medical Definition of PORPHYRIN
: any of various compounds with a structure that consists essentially of four pyrrole rings joined by four =CH− groups; especially : one (as chlorophyll or hemoglobin) containing a central metal atom and usually having biological activity
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