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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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 May Protect Against Cancer Some test-tube and animal studies suggest that compounds found in wasabi, including isothiocyanates, may help slow the growth of cancer cells. Lindsey Desoto, Health, 17 Dec. 2025 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 However, adding antioxidants—anti-inflammatory compounds, such as vitamin E—to the isothiocyanate vegetables could disrupt this process. Hatty Willmoth, Newsweek, 24 Dec. 2024 Another compound found in maca root is called p-methoxybenzyl isothiocyanate (PMBI). Discover Magazine, 29 Apr. 2023

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 27 Feb. 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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