niacin

noun

ni·​a·​cin ˈnī-ə-sən 

: an acid C₆H₅NO₂ of the vitamin B complex found widely in animals and plants and used especially against pellagra

also : nicotinamide

called also nicotinic acid

Examples of niacin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Boosting niacin also has an anti-inflammatory effect. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 10 July 2024

Just like salmon flesh, the skin is a good source of vitamins B and D, niacin, and phosphorus, the Alaskan Salmon Company confirms. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2024

Turkey also offers vitamins like B6 and B12 and minerals like magnesium, niacin and selenium. —Bethany Thayer, Detroit Free Press, 22 June 2024

Symptoms of niacin toxicity include flushed skin, itching sensations, feelings of nausea, headaches, vomiting episodes, dizziness, and pain in the upper abdomen. —Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 10 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

nicotinic acid + -in entry 1

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

niacin

noun

ni·​a·​cin ˈnī-ə-sən 

: an acid of the vitamin B complex that is found widely in plants and animals and is used especially against pellagra

called also nicotinic acid

Medical Definition

niacin

noun

ni·​a·​cin ˈnī-ə-sən 

: a crystalline acid C₆H₅NO₂ that is a member of the vitamin B complex occurring usually in the form of a complex of niacinamide in various animal and plant parts (as blood, liver, yeast, bran, and legumes) and is used especially to lower LDL and triglyceride levels in the blood and to treat pellagra

called also nicotinic acid