collagen

noun

col·​la·​gen ˈkä-lə-jən 

: any of a group of fibrous proteins that occur in vertebrates as the chief constituent of connective tissue fibrils and in bones and yield gelatin and glue upon boiling with water

collagenous

kə-ˈla-jə-nəs 

adjective

Examples of collagen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Slayton makes a smoothie with frozen strawberries, collagen peptides, and almond butter, or drizzles fresh berries with aged balsamic vinegar for a snack. —Embry Roberts, Martha Stewart, 24 May 2026

The formula’s retinol, ginger, and citrus increase the production of both collagen and elastin and improve circulation, thus reducing puffiness and dark circles. —Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 23 May 2026

So, where do collagen supplements come into this? —Audrey Noble, Vogue, 22 May 2026

The tiny glow-boosting beads burst upon contact to support elasticity and collagen production, making this an especially good pick for mature skin craving more cushion and bounce. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 20 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Greek kolla + International Scientific Vocabulary -gen

First Known Use

circa 1865, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

collagen

noun

col·​la·​gen ˈkäl-ə-jən 

: a protein that occurs in the form of fibers, does not dissolve, is found in connective tissue, and forms glue and gelatin upon boiling with water

Medical Definition

collagen

noun

col·​la·​gen ˈkäl-ə-jən 

: an insoluble fibrous protein of vertebrates that is the chief constituent of the fibrils of connective tissue (as in skin and tendons) and of the organic substance of bones and yields gelatin and glue on prolonged heating with water

collagenic

ˌkäl-ə-ˈjen-ik 

adjective

collagenous

kə-ˈlaj-ə-nəs 

adjective