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allantoin

American  
[uh-lan-toh-in] / əˈlæn toʊ ɪn /

noun

Biochemistry, Pharmacology.
  1. a white powder, C 4 H 6 N 4 O 3 , 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.


allantoin British  
/ 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

"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

Etymology

Origin of allantoin

1835–45; allanto(is) + -in 2; so named because it is found in the fluid of the allantois

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Wounds and ulcers promptly heal under the bland influence of a remarkable chemical, allantoin, which such urine contains.

From Time Magazine Archive