relaxin

noun

re·​lax·​in ri-ˈlak-sən How to pronounce relaxin (audio)
: a sex hormone of the corpus luteum that facilitates birth by causing relaxation of the pelvic ligaments

Examples of relaxin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This increase in size may be due to the hormone relaxin, which increases during pregnancy, or due to the extra weight gain. Sherri Gordon, Health, 29 July 2025 Benefits of Placenta Encapsulation The human placenta contains protein, fiber, amino acids, and other nutrients and minerals, as well as hormones like oxytocin, estrogen, progesterone, and relaxin. Christina Montoya Fiedler, Parents, 14 Jan. 2025 That’s because at six weeks, your joints, including your knees and hips, are still feeling the effects of the hormone relaxin, which is produced during pregnancy. Tiffany Ayuda, SELF, 6 Oct. 2022 From an athlete’s perspective, an important hormone of note is relaxin, which is produced by the ovaries and the placenta. Hayden Carpenter, Outside Online, 20 May 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of relaxin was in 1930

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Cite this Entry

“Relaxin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relaxin. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

relaxin

noun
re·​lax·​in ri-ˈlak-sən How to pronounce relaxin (audio)
: a polypeptide sex hormone of the corpus luteum that facilitates birth by causing relaxation of the pelvic ligaments

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