allantoin

[ uh-lan-toh-in ]

nounBiochemistry, Pharmacology.
  1. 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

1
1835–45; allanto(is) + -in2; so named because it is found in the fluid of the allantois

Words Nearby allantoin

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British Dictionary definitions for allantoin

allantoin

/ (ˌælənˈtəʊɪn) /


noun
  1. 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

1
C19: 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