anserine

1 of 2

adjective

an·​ser·​ine

-rə̇n

1

a

: of, relating to, or resembling a goose

anserine characteristics

b

: stupid, silly

ridiculous anserine behavior

2

: of or belonging to the Anseres

the anserine birds

anserine

2 of 2

noun

an·​ser·​ine

-rə̇n

variants or less commonly anserin

-rə̇n

plural -s

: a crystalline base C₁₀H₁₆N₄O₃ found in the muscles of birds; methyl-carnosine

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin anserinus, from anser goose + -inus -ine

Noun

borrowed from German Anserin, from Latin anser "goose" + German -in -in entry 1, -ine entry 2

First Known Use

Adjective

1719, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1936, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now