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Melanin: meaning, definitions and examples

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melanin

 

[ ˈmel.ə.nɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

biological pigment

Melanin is a natural pigment found in the skin, hair, and eyes of humans and animals. It is responsible for the color of these tissues and plays a critical role in protecting the skin from UV radiation. The amount and type of melanin produced by the body significantly impact an individual's skin tone. There are three main types of melanin: eumelanin, pheomelanin, and neuromelanin, each contributing to different colors and functions.

Synonyms

colorant, pigment

Examples of usage

  • The melanin in her skin gives her a rich bronze hue.
  • People with more melanin in their skin tend to have a lower risk of sunburn.
  • The hair color is directly affected by the levels of melanin present.
  • Melanin production can be triggered by exposure to sunlight.

Translations

Translations of the word "melanin" in other languages:

🇵🇹 melanina

🇮🇳 मेलानिन

🇩🇪 Melanin

🇮🇩 melanin

🇺🇦 меланін

🇵🇱 melanina

🇯🇵 メラニン

🇫🇷 mélanine

🇪🇸 melanina

🇹🇷 melanin

🇰🇷 멜라닌

🇸🇦 الميلانين

🇨🇿 melanin

🇸🇰 melanín

🇨🇳 黑色素

🇸🇮 melanin

🇮🇸 melanín

🇰🇿 меланин

🇬🇪 მელანინი

🇦🇿 melanin

🇲🇽 melanina

Word origin

The term 'melanin' is derived from the Greek word 'melas' (μέλας), meaning 'black' or 'dark'. The word was first used in the scientific literature in the early 19th century to describe a class of dark pigments produced in animal tissues. Melanin plays a significant role in the field of biology and dermatology as it relates to skin pigmentation and protection against sun damage. Over time, research has expanded to explore the various types of melanin and their functions, including their influence on conditions like melanoma, vitiligo, and other genetic and environmental factors affecting coloration.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,037, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.