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

The formula is designed to deliver dramatic volume and length in just one coat, and it’s infused with hydrolyzed collagen, biotin, and peptides to strengthen the lashes. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 11 Nov. 2026

The film follows a desperate mother who discovers an obscure collagen supplement that promises to transform her tween gymnast daughter into an influencer. — Brent Lang, IndieWire, 5 Nov. 2026

There’s a lot of studies looking at either collagen peptides alone, placebo, or collagen peptides with combined MSM. — Team Verywell Health, Verywell Health, 4 Nov. 2026

This antioxidant supports immune function, collagen production, and iron absorption. — Lindsey Desoto, HEALTH, 3 Nov. 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