Definition of EICOSANOID (original) (raw)
: any of a class of compounds (such as the prostaglandins) derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids (such as arachidonic acid) and involved in cellular activity
Examples of eicosanoid 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.
Impact on Hormone Production and Genetic Function Omega-3 fatty acids serve as precursors for the production of hormone-like substances called eicosanoids. —
Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 5 Oct. 2023 Polyunsaturated oils from corn, safflower and soybean contain lots of omega-6 fatty acids, which are precursors to inflammatory compounds known as eicosanoids. —Dorothy Kieffer, sacbee.com, 29 May 2017
Word History
Etymology
eicosa- containing 20 atoms (from Greek eikosa- twenty, from eikosi) + _-n_oic, suffix used in names of fatty acids (from -a_n_e + -oic) + -oid entry 1 — more at vigesimal
First Known Use
1980, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of eicosanoid was in 1980
Dictionary Entries Near eicosanoid
Cite this Entry
“Eicosanoid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eicosanoid. Accessed 11 Jan. 2025.
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