capsaicin

[ kap-sey-uh-sin ]
/ kæpˈseɪ ə sɪn /

noun

a colorless, crystalline, bitter compound, C18H27NO3, present in capsicum.

Origin of capsaicin

1885–90; earlier capsicine, equivalent to capsic(um) + -ine2; refashioned with capsa- (< Latin: box) for caps- and -in2 for -ine2

Words nearby capsaicin

Example sentences from the Web for capsaicin

British Dictionary definitions for capsaicin

capsaicin
/ (kæpˈseɪɪsɪn) /

noun

a colourless crystalline bitter alkaloid found in capsicums and used as a flavouring in vinegar and pickles. Formula: C 18 H 27 O 3 N

Word Origin for capsaicin

C19 capsicine, from capsicum + -ine ²; modern form refashioned from Latin capsa box, case + -in

Medical definitions for capsaicin

capsaicin
[ kăp-sāĭ-sĭn ]

n.

A colorless, pungent, crystalline compound that is derived from the capsicum pepper and is a strong irritant to skin and mucous membranes.

Scientific definitions for capsaicin

capsaicin
[ kăp-sāĭ-sĭn ]

A colorless, extremely pungent, crystalline compound that is the primary active principle producing the heat of red peppers. It is a strong irritant to skin and mucous membranes and is used in medicine as a topical analgesic. Capsaicin is highly stable, retaining its potency for long periods and despite cooking or freezing. Chemical formula: C18H27NO3.