auxin

noun aux·in \ ˈȯk-sən \

Definition of auxin

1 : any of various usually acidic organic substances that promote cell elongation in plant shoots and usually regulate other growth processes (such as root initiation): such as

a : indoleacetic acid

b : any of various synthetic substances (such as 2,4-D) resembling indoleacetic acid in activity and used especially in research and agriculture

2 : plant hormone

—

auxinic

play \ȯk-ˈsi-nik\ adjective

See auxin defined for kids

Origin and Etymology of auxin

International Scientific Vocabulary, from Greek auxein to increase — more at eke

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1933

in the meaning defined at sense 1

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

auxin

noun aux·in \ ˈȯk-sən \

medical Definition of auxin

: an organic substance that is able in low concentrations to promote elongation of plant shoots and usually to control other specific growth effects; broadly : plant hormone