dehydrocholesterol

noun

de·​hy·​dro·​cholesterol

dē¦hīdrō+

: a crystalline steroid alcohol C₂₇H₄₃OH that occurs chiefly in higher animals and humans (as in the skin), that is made synthetically from cholesterol, and that yields vitamin D₃ on irradiation with ultraviolet light

called also 7-dehydrocholesterol

Word History

Etymology

dehydr- + cholesterol

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