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: an amorphous polymer related to cellulose that provides rigidity and together with cellulose forms the woody cell walls of plants and the cementing material between them
Examples of lignin in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
On closer inspection, the team found that the fungus breaks down the lignin in the wood, the natural polymer that provides stiffness and compressive strength.
—Michael Irving, New Atlas, 1 Dec. 2024
The carbon in their corpses — lignin, cellulose, fatty acids, proteins, and so on — feeds microorganisms that break down large molecules and return carbon dioxide to the air, completing the carbon cycle.
—Umair Irfan, Vox, 7 Dec. 2018
The paper industry uses lots of chemicals and energy to remove lignin from pulp.
—Dino Grandoni, Washington Post, 1 Aug. 2024
The material contains lignin and silica as well, both of which aid in fighting off bacteria growth.
—Halee Miller Van Ryswyk, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Sep. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1822, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near lignin
Cite this Entry
“Lignin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lignin. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
lignin
noun
lig·nin
ˈlig-nən
: a substance related to cellulose that occurs in the woody cell walls of plants and in the cementing material between them
Medical Definition
lignin
noun
lig·nin
ˈlig-nən
: an amorphous polymeric substance related to cellulose that together with cellulose forms the woody cell walls of plants and the cementing material between them
More from Merriam-Webster on lignin
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lignin
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