pectin

pec·tin

noun \ˈpek-tən\

Definition of PECTIN

: any of various water-soluble substances that bind adjacent cell walls in plant tissues and yield a gel which is the basis of fruit jellies; also : a commercial product rich in pectins

Origin of PECTIN

French pectine, from pectique

First Known Use: 1838

Rhymes with PECTIN

lectin, nekton, pecten

pec·tin

noun \ˈpek-tən\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of PECTIN

1

: any of various water-soluble substances that bind adjacent cell walls in plant tissues and yield a gel which is the basis of fruit jellies

2

: a commercial product rich in pectins and used chiefly in making jelly and other foods, in pharmaceutical products especially for the control of diarrhea, and in cosmetics

pectin

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Any of a class of carbohydrates found in certain plant cell walls and tissues. They are principally composed of a galactose derivative, galacturonic acid. In fruits, pectin keeps the walls of adjacent cells joined together, helping them remain firm and hold their shape. As fruits become overripe, the pectin breaks down to simple sugars that dissolve more readily, so the fruits become soft and lose their shape. Because it forms a thick, gel-like solution when added in small amounts to fruit acids, sugar, and water, pectin is used to make jellies, jams, and marmalades. Its thickening properties also make it useful in the confectionery, pharmaceutical, and textile industries.