bromelain

[ broh-muh-luhn, -leyn ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. an enzyme, found in pineapple, that breaks down protein and is used as a meat tenderizer.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bromelain¹

1890–95; apparently bromel(in) an earlier name for the enzyme ( Bromel(ia) a genus that formerly included the pineapple ( bromeliad ) + -in ² ) + (pap)ain

Example Sentences

To learn about other natural approaches, from boswellia and bromelain to ashwagandha and turmeric, you may find our “eGuide to Alternatives for Arthritis” helpful.

From Seattle Times

Consequently, we don’t know if eating pineapple, drinking its juice, or taking bromelain tablets derived from pineapple will help other tinnitus victims.

From Seattle Times

The product I took contained vitamin C, magnesium and bromelain in addition to quercetin.

From Seattle Times

In any form, pineapple is a good source of the anti-inflammatory enzyme bromelain.

From Washington Post

In this stir-fry, a group of enzymes in fresh pineapple, bromelain, breaks down the connective tissues of fibrous chicken, turning the otherwise taut meat into slackened nuggets.

From New York Times