collagen

noun

col·​la·​gen ˈkä-lə-jən 

: any of a group of fibrous proteins that occur in vertebrates as the chief constituent of connective tissue fibrils and in bones and yield gelatin and glue upon boiling with water

collagenous

kə-ˈla-jə-nəs 

adjective

Examples of collagen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Editor tip: This balm also includes Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) extract to stimulate collagen production to improve texture and bounciness. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 Jan. 2025

This treatment can also boost collagen production, ease sinus congestion, and even provide relief for TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. —Tira Urquhart, Essence, 17 Jan. 2025

The importance of daylight The infrared light found in daylight can modulate inflammation, stimulate collagen production, prevent neurodegeneration, and even optimize mitochondria, which produce energy inside our cells. —Ana Morales, Vogue, 16 Jan. 2025

Many models and celebrities swear by RLT for its non-invasive anti-aging effects, which boost circulation and oxygen to the skin, promoting collagen production and reducing wrinkles, sun damage and scars. —Nicole Dunn, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Greek kolla + International Scientific Vocabulary -gen

First Known Use

circa 1865, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

collagen

noun

col·​la·​gen ˈkäl-ə-jən 

: a protein that occurs in the form of fibers, does not dissolve, is found in connective tissue, and forms glue and gelatin upon boiling with water

Medical Definition

collagen

noun

col·​la·​gen ˈkäl-ə-jən 

: an insoluble fibrous protein of vertebrates that is the chief constituent of the fibrils of connective tissue (as in skin and tendons) and of the organic substance of bones and yields gelatin and glue on prolonged heating with water

collagenic

ˌkäl-ə-ˈjen-ik 

adjective

collagenous

kə-ˈlaj-ə-nəs 

adjective