allantoin
[ uh-lan-toh-in ]
nounBiochemistry, Pharmacology.
a white powder, C4H6N4O3, produced by oxidation of uric acid and the major excretory product of purine degradation in many vertebrates: used medicinally to heal skin ulcers and in lotions, lipsticks, etc., for its soothing effect.
Origin of allantoin
11835–45; allanto(is) + -in2; so named because it is found in the fluid of the allantois
Words Nearby allantoin
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
British Dictionary definitions for allantoin
allantoin
/ (ˌælənˈtəʊɪn) /
noun
a substance derived from the secretions of snails and contained in some plants, used in skin care products and valued for its soothing properties
Origin of allantoin
1C19: from allantois
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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