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
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In very high amounts, solanine and chaconine poisoning may result in hallucinations, paralysis, jaundice, loss of sensation, and even death. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Oct. 2024 In moderate quantities, solanine and chaconine can cause itchiness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting, Brekke says. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Oct. 2024 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

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 24 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

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