zein

[ zee-in ]

noun

1. Biochemistry. a soft, yellow powder of simple proteins obtained from corn, used chiefly in the manufacture of textile fibers, plastics, and paper coatings.
2. a synthetic fiber produced from this protein.

zein

/ ˈziːɪn /

noun

1. a protein of the prolamine group occurring in maize and used in the manufacture of plastics, paper coatings, adhesives, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of zein¹

1815–25; < New Latin Ze ( a ) the maize genus ( Latin: emmer < Greek zeiá barley, wheat; cognate with Sanskrit yáva grain) + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of zein¹

C19: from New Latin zēa maize, from Latin: a kind of grain, from Greek zeia barley

Example Sentences

Meanwhile, residents of Bracha settlement attacked Burin village, throwing Molotov cocktails at Bashir al-Zein's home.

From The Daily Beast

When he came in to Zein ul Asnam, the latter rose to him and received him with the utmost reverence.

From Project Gutenberg

The protein of wheat is called gluten—that of Indian corn is zein—that of beans and peas is legumin.

From Project Gutenberg

Mahomed Zein had not followed the example of some of his followers, and died fighting to the last.

From Project Gutenberg

Many prisoners were captured, including the Dervish leader, Mohammed Zein.

From Project Gutenberg

Examples of these proteins may be seen in the gliadin of wheat, zein of corn, and hordein of barley.

From Project Gutenberg