Main Entry: lec·i·thin

Pronunciation: \ˈle-sə-thən\

Function: noun

Etymology: International Scientific Vocabulary, from Greek lekithos yolk of an egg

Date: 1861

: any of several waxy hygroscopic phospholipids that are widely distributed in animals and plants, form colloidal solutions in water, and have emulsifying, wetting, and antioxidant properties; also : a mixture of or substance rich in lecithins