xanthin

[ zan-thin ]
/ ˈzæn θɪn /

noun

the part of the coloring matter in yellow flowers that is insoluble in water. Compare xanthein.
a yellow coloring matter in madder.

Origin of xanthin

1830–40; < French xanthine or < German Xanthin. See xantho-, -in2

Example sentences from the Web for xanthin

  • Xanthin and catechol browns are pleasing in appearance, but their effect is less rich than that obtained with potash.

    The Decoration of Leather |Georges de Rcy
  • In the roots three coloring matters are obtained: alizarin and purpurin, which are both red, and xanthin, which is yellow.

  • The xanthin group is almost without any excitatory action, and its metabolic end products are constant.

    All About Coffee |William H. Ukers

British Dictionary definitions for xanthin

xanthin
/ (ˈzænθɪn) /

noun

any of a group of yellow or orange carotene derivatives that occur in the fruit and flowers of certain plants