genistein

noun

ge·​nis·​tein jə-ˈni-stē-ən How to pronounce genistein (audio) -ˈni-ˌstēn How to pronounce genistein (audio)
: an isoflavone C15H10O5 found especially in soybeans and shown in laboratory experiments to have antitumor activity

Examples of genistein in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Soybeans are high in fiber, as well as compounds called isoflavones, which include daidzein and genistein. Maggie Fox, NBC News, 30 Oct. 2017 The idea that plant hormones—such as genistein, the primary phytoestrogen in soy—can interfere with mammalian development is not new. Deborah Blum, Slate Magazine, 3 Aug. 2017

Word History

Etymology

genist- (from New Latin Genista tinctoria, a species of broom) + -ein, alteration of -in entry 1

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of genistein was in 1899

Dictionary Entries Near genistein

Cite this Entry

“Genistein.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genistein. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

genistein

noun
ge·​nis·​tein jə-ˈnis-tē-ən How to pronounce genistein (audio) -ˈnis-ˌtēn How to pronounce genistein (audio)
: an isoflavone C15H10O5 found especially in soybeans and shown in laboratory experiments to have antitumor activity
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