allicin

noun

al·​li·​cin ˈa-lə-sən 

: a pungent compound C₆H₁₀OS₂ formed enzymatically in crushed garlic cloves that imparts the distinctive smell to garlic and possesses antimicrobial properties

Examples of allicin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Much of raw garlic’s punch comes from sulfur compounds such as allicin. — Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 3 Nov. 2026

Fresh garlic gets much of its sharp aroma from sulfur compounds like allicin, and those compounds change during aging, so black garlic loses much of that harshness. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 2 Nov. 2026

Stuart pointed out that when garlic is crushed or chopped, sulfur compounds like allicin are formed. — Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 14 Oct. 2026

Chop the cloves first to release allicin, then cook or consume them raw. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 12 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Allium allium + -in entry 1, with -c- perhaps after names of other plant-derived compounds, as ricin, salicin

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for allicin

• bisson
• christen
• frisson
• glisten
• listen
• nissen
• hemolysin
• rifampicin

Medical Definition

allicin

noun

al·​li·​cin ˈal-ə-sən 

: a pungent compound C₆H₁₀OS₂ formed enzymatically from alliin in crushed garlic cloves that imparts the distinctive smell to garlic and possesses antimicrobial properties