pectin

noun

pec·​tin ˈpek-tən 

: any of various water-soluble substances that bind adjacent cell walls in plant tissues and yield a gel which is the basis of fruit jellies

also : a commercial product rich in pectins

Examples of pectin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some examples of soluble fiber include pectin (found in fruits), beta-glucan (found in whole oats) and psyllium husk, which is a plant most often consumed as a supplement. —Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 15 Nov. 2025

Kiwi’s enzyme actinidin and balanced fiber mix help move things along, while apples’ pectin mainly softens stool. —Sarah Garone, Health, 13 Nov. 2025

The popularity of pectin in search data indicates a trend towards natural and plant-based ingredients that are still effective. —Vogue Business Team, Vogue, 7 Nov. 2025

Key Takeaways Apple cider is less processed than apple juice and contains healthy compounds like polyphenols and pectin. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 3 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French pectine, from pectique

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pectin

• lectin
• pecten
• amylopectin
• fibronectin
• ivermectin
• selectin

Kids Definition

pectin

noun

pec·​tin ˈpek-tən 

: any of various substances in plant tissues that dissolve in water and produce a gel which is the basis of fruit jellies

also : a commercial product rich in pectins

Medical Definition

pectin

noun

pec·​tin ˈpek-tən 

1

: any of various water-soluble substances that bind adjacent cell walls in plant tissues and yield a gel which is the basis of fruit jellies

2

: a commercial product rich in pectins and used chiefly in making jelly and other foods, in pharmaceutical products especially for the control of diarrhea, and in cosmetics