chondroitin

noun

chon·​droi·​tin kän-ˈdrȯi-tᵊn 

-ˈdrō-ə-tən

variants or chondroitin sulfate

: any of several glycosaminoglycans that occur in sulfated form in various tissues (such as cartilage and tendons) and are used in dietary supplements in a natural or synthetic form especially to treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis

Examples of chondroitin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Supplements that can make your poop smell include chondroitin, glucosamine, iron, and fat-soluble vitamins. —Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 14 Apr. 2025

Studies have found that chondroitin sulfate supplementation decreases knee pain, similar to the anti-inflammatory medication Celebrex (celecoxib).2 Additionally, chondroitin sulfate may help alleviate pain and improve physical function and movement.3 2. —Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 31 Mar. 2025

Taking chondroitin supplements is likely to cause little harm. —Ashley Wong, Health, 2 Jan. 2025

One review of 43 clinical trials found that chondroitin—alone or combined with glucosamine—slightly improved joint pain from OA in the short term.10 However, the researchers concluded that higher-quality studies were needed to evaluate the role of chondroitin in joint pain. —Ashley Wong, Health, 2 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Chondroïtin, from Chondroitsäure "chondroitic acid (an acid found in cartilage)" (from chondro- chondro- + -it -ite entry 1) + -in -in entry 1

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for chondroitin

• erythropoietin

Medical Definition

chondroitin

noun

chon·​droi·​tin kän-ˈdrȯit-ᵊn, -ˈdrō-ət-ən 

: any of several glycosaminoglycans occurring in sulfated form in various tissues (as cartilage and tendons)