lignin

noun

lig·​nin ˈlig-nən 

: 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

Word History

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined above

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