psoralen

noun

pso·​ra·​len ˈsȯr-ə-lən How to pronounce psoralen (audio)
: a substance C11H6O3 found in some plants that photosensitizes mammalian skin and is used in conjunction with ultraviolet light to treat psoriasis
also : any of various derivatives of psoralen having similar properties

Examples of psoralen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web There are several different types of phototherapy—including narrowband UVB, broadband UVB, targeted UVB [excimer laser or light], and UVA with psoralens (topical, oral, or bath)—and all of them involve exposing the skin to light. Jenna Birch, SELF, 28 Oct. 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'psoralen.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Psoralea, genus of plants from which it is isolated + English -en, alteration of -ene

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of psoralen was in 1933

Dictionary Entries Near psoralen

Cite this Entry

“Psoralen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/psoralen. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

psoralen

noun
pso·​ra·​len ˈsȯr-ə-lən How to pronounce psoralen (audio)
: a substance C11H6O3 found in some plants that photosensitizes mammalian skin and is used in conjunction with ultraviolet light to treat psoriasis
also : any of various derivatives of psoralen having similar properties see puva
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