lignin

2 definitions found

lignin - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Lignin \Lig"nin\ (l[i^]g"n[i^]n), n. [L. lignum wood: cf. F.
     lignine.] (Bot.)
     A substance characterizing wood cells and differing from
     cellulose in its conduct with certain chemical reagents.
     [1913 Webster]
  
     Note: Recent authors have distinguished four forms of this
           substance, naming them lignose, lignin, lignone, and
           lignireose.
           [1913 Webster]

lignin - WordNet (r) 2.1 (2005) :

  lignin
      n 1: a complex polymer; the chief constituent of wood other than
           carbohydrates; binds to cellulose fibers to harden and
           strengthen cell walls of plants