Lecithin

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈlÉ›s.É™.θɪn/
• Rhymes: -ɪn

Origin

Coined in 1847 by Theodore Gobley, from Ancient Greek λέκιθος (lékithos, "egg yolk")

Full definition of lecithin

Noun

1. (organic chemistry) the principal phospholipid in animals; it is particularly abundant in egg yolks, and is extracted commercially from soy. It is a major constituent of cell membranes, and is commonly used as a food additive (as an emulsifier).

Synonyms

• phosphatidylcholine
• E322 when used as an emulsifier