: any of a class of propyl phenolic dimers including many found in plants and noted for having antioxidant and estrogenic activity
Examples of lignan in a Sentence
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Flaxseeds also contain cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber and compounds called lignans, which may support healthy blood vessels.
—
Beth Krietsch, SELF, 22 Jan. 2026
Oatmeal Topped with Flax Seeds and Blueberries Heart-healthy nutrients: Fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, lignans
Oatmeal is naturally high in soluble fiber, especially beta-glucan, a type of fiber that forms a gel in the digestive tract and helps reduce cholesterol absorption.
—Caitlin Beale, Health, 7 Jan. 2026
There are thousands of different polyphenols that are grouped into categories such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes and lignans.
—Leeann Weintraub, Daily News, 11 Dec. 2025
Rye also contains phenolic compounds and lignans, antioxidants that are linked to better blood vessel function and lower inflammation, said Davar.
—Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 12 Nov. 2025
The powerhouse seed is also a good source of antioxidants, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids (specifically alpha-linolenic acid), lignans, magnesium, and vitamin B1.
—Christina Chaey, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Sep. 2025
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Beth Krietsch, SELF, 22 Jan. 2026
Oatmeal Topped with Flax Seeds and Blueberries Heart-healthy nutrients: Fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, lignans
Oatmeal is naturally high in soluble fiber, especially beta-glucan, a type of fiber that forms a gel in the digestive tract and helps reduce cholesterol absorption.
—Caitlin Beale, Health, 7 Jan. 2026
There are thousands of different polyphenols that are grouped into categories such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes and lignans.
—Leeann Weintraub, Daily News, 11 Dec. 2025
Rye also contains phenolic compounds and lignans, antioxidants that are linked to better blood vessel function and lower inflammation, said Davar.
—Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 12 Nov. 2025
The powerhouse seed is also a good source of antioxidants, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids (specifically alpha-linolenic acid), lignans, magnesium, and vitamin B1.
—Christina Chaey, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Lignan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lignan. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
lignan
noun
lig·nan
ˈlig-ˌnan 
: any of a class of polyphenolic compounds including many found in plants and noted for having antioxidant and estrogenic activity
In the process of digestion, bacteria convert lignans into estrogen-like substances …—Wellness Letter
Wellness LetterThe major types of phytoestrogens are thought to be isoflavones, found in soy protein, and lignans, found in flaxseeds, whole grains, and some fruits and vegetables.—Consumer Reports
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