urocanic acid

noun

uro·​ca·​nic acid ˌyu̇r-ə-ˈkā-nik-  -ˈka- 

: a crystalline acid C₆H₆N₂O₂ that is normally present in human skin

Word History

Etymology

ur- entry 1 + canine + -ic; from its being first obtained from the urine of a dog

First Known Use

circa 1903, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

urocanic acid

noun

uro·​ca·​nic acid ˌyu̇r-ə-ˌkā-nik-  -ˌkan-ik- 

: a crystalline acid C₆H₆N₂O₂ normally present in human skin that is held to act as a screening agent for ultraviolet radiation