solanine

noun

so·​la·​nine ˈsō-lə-ˌnēn How to pronounce solanine (audio) -nən How to pronounce solanine (audio)
variants or less commonly solanin
: a bitter poisonous crystalline alkaloid C45H73NO15 found in the parts (such as tubers and fruits) of several plants (such as potatoes and tomatoes) of the nightshade family

Examples of solanine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Raw potatoes contain solanine and lectins, which can both contribute to the digestive issues. Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 8 Sep. 2024 With the help of the chemical solanine, tomatoes deter obnoxious asparagus beetles, which, can do harm to asparagus plants. Steve Bender, Southern Living, 2 May 2024 In high doses, solanine can cause can cause headaches, gastrointestinal symptoms, lower body temperature, and slow pulse. Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 29 Sep. 2021 The green is actually harmless chlorophyll — the presence of which indicates a toxin called solanine. Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 29 Sep. 2021 In extreme cases, solanine poisoning has led to paralysis of the central nervous system, convulsions, and death. Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 29 Sep. 2021 Tomatoes, members of the nightshade family, contain a toxin called solanine, which exists in higher concentrations in unripe tomatoes, as well as the stems and leaves. Jacob Livesay, USA TODAY, 3 Aug. 2022 Steroidal alkaloids such as solanine have atropine-like effects on the nervous system inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Chris Smith, BGR, 28 July 2022 Nightshades contain a toxin called solanine, says sciencedirect.com. Evan Hecht, USA TODAY, 17 July 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'solanine.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

French solanine, from Latin solanum

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of solanine was in 1838

Dictionary Entries Near solanine

Cite this Entry

“Solanine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solanine. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

solanine

noun
so·​la·​nine
variants or solanin
: a bitter poisonous crystalline alkaloid C45H72NO15 from several plants (as some potatoes or tomatoes) of the family Solanaceae

More from Merriam-Webster on solanine

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