papain

[ puh-pey-in, -pahy-in ]

noun

1. Biochemistry. a proteolytic enzyme found in the fruit of the papaya tree, Carica papaya.
2. Pharmacology. a commercial preparation of this used as a meat tenderizer and in medicine as a digestant.

papain

/ pəˈpeɪɪn; -ˈpaɪɪn /

noun

1. a proteolytic enzyme occurring in the unripe fruit of the papaya tree, Carica papaya: used as a meat tenderizer and in medicine as an aid to protein digestion

Word History and Origins

Origin of papain¹

First recorded in 1885–90; papa(ya) + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of papain¹

C19: from papaya

Example Sentences

Sullivan Papain Block McGrath Coffinas & Cannavot, a law firm that has represented New York City’s firefighters union for four decades, as well as more than 4,000 individuals with 9/11-related health problems, recieved 362 wrongful death and/or personal injury claims after the attacks, personal injury lawyer Nick Papain told Fox News.

From Fox News

"No department was more devastated than the fire department on 9/11," Papain said.

From Fox News

"People don’t realize that this 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund goes well beyond first responders," Papain said.

From Fox News

The total number of people who count as 9/11 survivors, or those who lived, worked or went to school below Canal Street between the aforementioned dates, is around 100,000, Papain said.

From Fox News

The doctor recommending this remedy suggested that the papain in meat tenderizer breaks down the venom in the sting.

From Seattle Times