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

White tea extracts may also help protect collagen and elastin, which help keep your skin firm and flexible. — Brandi Jones, HEALTH, 24 Sep. 2026

The process has also been known to stimulate the skin’s production of collagen, a protein that helps maintain skin’s elasticity. — Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 21 Sep. 2026

This serum stimulates the skin’s natural collagen and elastin production, helping to minimize fine lines and wrinkles while boosting the skin’s overall resilience and glow. — ABC News, 19 Sep. 2026

The formula includes a collagen-boosting peptide and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid and is designed to support the lip barrier while helping lips appear softer, smoother and more hydrated. — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 18 Sep. 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