papain

noun

pa·​pa·​in pə-ˈpā-ən  -ˈpī-ən 

: a protease in the juice of unripe papaya that is used especially as a tenderizer for meat and in medicine (as in the topical debridement of necrotic tissue)

Examples of papain in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some protein powders may also contain ingredients that are unsafe for pregnant people, such as ginkgo or papain. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 20 Oct. 2025

Formulated without alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, the TheraBreath Whitening Fresh Breath Oral Rinse uses glucose oxidase and enzymes called papain to help break up stains and kill bad-breath-causing bacteria—all without aggravating sensitive teeth and gums. —Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025

Kaolin, papain, tapioca starch, and magnesium carbonate are also featured to amplify these purifying effects. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 16 Dec. 2024

Crafted with care, these treats are infused with enriching full spectrum CBD extract, as well as a blend of beneficial ingredients like turmeric, papain, bromelain, and catnip leaf powder. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 15 June 2023

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from papaya

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for papain

• aeroplane
• appertain
• ascertain
• capitaine
• cassegrain
• cellophane
• chatelaine
• counterpane
• entertain
• gethsemane
• halothane
• hurricane

Kids Definition

papain

noun

pa·​pa·​in pə-ˈpā-ən  -ˈpī-ən 

: an enzyme in papaya juice used especially to make meat tender and in medicine

Medical Definition

papain

noun

pa·​pa·​in pə-ˈpā-ən  -ˈpī- 

: a crystallizable protease in the juice of the green fruit of the papaya obtained usually as a brownish powder and used chiefly as a tenderizer for meat and in medicine as a digestant and as a topical agent in the debridement of necrotic tissue