lectin

noun

lec·​tin ˈlek-tən How to pronounce lectin (audio)
: any of a group of proteins especially of plants that are not antibodies and do not originate in an immune system but bind specifically to carbohydrate-containing receptors on cell surfaces (as of red blood cells)

Examples of lectin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While lectins aren't considered to have great nutritional value, phytic acid does have antioxidant properties. — Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 6 Jan. 2025 American mistletoe contains two toxins: a lectin called toxalbumin, and a protein called pharatoxin viscumin. — Erica Browne Grivas, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin lectus (past participle of legere to pick, select) + -in entry 1 — more at legend

First Known Use

1954, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lectin was in 1954

Rhymes for lectin

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Browse Nearby Words

lectern
lectin
lection
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Cite this Entry

“Lectin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lectin. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.

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Medical Definition

lectin

noun
lec·​tin ˈlek-tən How to pronounce lectin (audio)
: any of a group of proteins especially of plants that are not antibodies and do not originate in an immune system but bind specifically to carbohydrate-containing receptors on cell surfaces (as of red blood cells)

More from Merriam-Webster on lectin

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lectin

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