isothiocyanate

noun

iso·​thio·​cy·​a·​nate ˌī-sō-ˌthī-ō-ˈsī-ə-ˌnāt How to pronounce isothiocyanate (audio)
: a compound containing the monovalent group −NCS

Examples of isothiocyanate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Your body converts these compounds into isothiocyanates, which have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.2 A 2025 review of 17 studies found that people who ate the most cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli, had a 17% lower risk of colon cancer than those who ate the least. Jillian Kubala, Health, 4 Mar. 2026 Studies suggest these isothiocyanates may play a role in preventing cancers, including lung cancer, skin cancer, and prostate cancer.234 2. Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 12 Feb. 2026 Nomio as a Lactate Fighter The active ingredient in Nomio is isothiocyanates, or ITCs, which are found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, kale, and cabbage. Alex Hutchinson, Outside, 29 Oct. 2025 These types of vegetables contain special natural compounds called glucosinolates, which break down into powerful substances called isothiocyanates, the researchers revealed. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 25 Aug. 2025 Specifically, the scientists found that sulfur-rich compounds in certain vegetables, namely isothiocyanates—found in brassicas such as broccoli and cabbage—and polysulfide—found in garlic, onion and leeks—could generate trans fats at high temperatures. Hatty Willmoth, Newsweek, 24 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of isothiocyanate was in 1891

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Cite this Entry

“Isothiocyanate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/isothiocyanate. Accessed 19 Mar. 2026.

Medical Definition

isothiocyanate

noun
iso·​thio·​cy·​a·​nate ˌī-sō-ˌthī-ō-ˈsī-ə-ˌnāt How to pronounce isothiocyanate (audio)
: a compound containing the monovalent group −NCS : a salt or ester of isothiocyanic acid see allyl isothiocyanate

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