saponin

[ sap-uh-nin ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any of a group of amorphous glycosides of terpenes and steroids, occurring in many plants, characterized by an ability to form emulsions and to foam in aqueous solutions, and used as detergents.

saponin

/ ˈsæpənɪn /

noun

1. any of a group of plant glycosides with a steroid structure that foam when shaken and are used in detergents

saponin

/ săp′ə-nĭn,sə-pō′- /

1. Any of various plant glucosides that form soapy lathers when mixed and agitated with water. They are used in detergents, foaming agents, and emulsifiers. Some saponins, such as digitalis, affect the heart and have been used as medicines and arrow poisons by indigenous peoples of Africa and South America.

Word History and Origins

Origin of saponin¹

1825–35; < French saponine < Latin sāpōn- (stem of sāpō ) soap + French -ine -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of saponin¹

C19: from French saponine, from Latin sāpō soap

Example Sentences

He also found saponin in the seeds, but it exists in much greater quantity in the trunk.

From Project Gutenberg

It contains a saponin and an acrid resin, and is said to possess expectorant, diaphoretic and—​in large doses—​emetic properties.

From Project Gutenberg

It is true that Boehm whom Hartung cites, found saponin to be irritating, but Boehm states that it required 100 mg.

From Project Gutenberg

Digitonin and digito-saponin are glucosides of this type which are found in the extracts from various species of Digitalis.

From Project Gutenberg

Saponin is found in both of these plants, as well as in many other plants of the leguminosæ.

From Project Gutenberg