progestin

noun

pro·​ges·​tin prō-ˈje-stən 

: a synthetic progestogen (such as levonorgestrel)

Examples of progestin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These can include aromatase inhibitors to suppress estrogen production, or progestins, which can be taken orally or administered via an intrauterine device (IUD). —Tabitha Britt, Flow Space, 29 Oct. 2025

There are two different types: a copper IUD, which prevents sperm from reaching an egg—and a hormonal IUD that contains a synthetic version of progesterone, known as progestin. —Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Sep. 2025

While there are hormonal medicines for fibroid treatment, like oral contraceptives, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, and progestins, some women are leaning on eastern medicine, including acupuncture and herbal remedies, for relief and care. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 30 July 2025

That’s because progestin can mimic androgens in the body, increasing oil production. —Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 1 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

progest(ational) + -in entry 1, originally as a name for progesterone

Note: The name was introduced by the American gynecologist and biochemist Willard M. Allen (1904-93) in "Physiology of the Corpus Luteum V. The Preparation and Some Chemical Properties of Progestin, a Hormone of the Corpus Luteum which Produces Progestational Proliferation," Amerian Journal of Physiology, vol. 92, issue 1 (February, 1930), pp. 174-88.

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for progestin

• clandestine
• intestine

Medical Definition

progestin

noun

pro·​ges·​tin prō-ˈjest-ən 

: a synthetic progestogen (such as levonorgestrel)