pectin

noun

pec·​tin ˈpek-tən 

: any of various water-soluble substances that bind adjacent cell walls in plant tissues and yield a gel which is the basis of fruit jellies

also : a commercial product rich in pectins

Examples of pectin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Apples contain pectin, a type of soluble fiber that helps to improve the transit time of food in your digestive system. —Anna Meyer, Cpt, Health, 16 Oct. 2024

Apples, which promote digestive health, are high in fiber and pectin, which also helps to regulate blood sugar. —Bethany Thayer, Detroit Free Press, 22 Sep. 2024

In the same pot stir together the 3 1/2 cups cherry juice and the pectin. —Bhg Test Kitchen, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 May 2024

Olives are also a good source of fiber, including pectins that promote regularity.41 19. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 6 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French pectine, from pectique

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

pectin

noun

pec·​tin ˈpek-tən 

: any of various substances in plant tissues that dissolve in water and produce a gel which is the basis of fruit jellies

also : a commercial product rich in pectins

Medical Definition

pectin

noun

pec·​tin ˈpek-tən 

1

: any of various water-soluble substances that bind adjacent cell walls in plant tissues and yield a gel which is the basis of fruit jellies

2

: a commercial product rich in pectins and used chiefly in making jelly and other foods, in pharmaceutical products especially for the control of diarrhea, and in cosmetics