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

Microneedling produces tiny wounds in the skin that allow topical medications to penetrate more deeply while stimulating collagen production and the release of growth factors. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 19 June 2025

The sale is the ideal time to harness the rejuvenating powers of an LED face mask, known to effectively combat acne, inflammation, signs of aging, and stimulate collagen production. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 19 June 2025

According to the brand, snail mucin (aka: snail secretion filtrate) is a deeply hydrating skincare ingredient that gently exfoliates, soothes irritation, and boosts collagen production to fight wrinkles. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 18 June 2025

While dermatologists love retinoids for stimulating collagen production, the experts warn they should be used in a particular way, especially in the summer. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 14 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Greek kolla + International Scientific Vocabulary -gen

First Known Use

circa 1865, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for collagen

• procollagen

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