Anserine

/ˈæn.sə.raɪn/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characteristic of geese; goose-like, or chemically, relating to a compound found in goose and other bird muscles.

Etymology

From Latin 'anserinus' (of geese) plus English suffix '-ine,' meaning 'of or pertaining to,' used both as a descriptive adjective and in chemistry for a dipeptide.

Kelly Says

Scientists found a specific chemical compound (actually a dipeptide) in goose muscle and literally named it 'anserine' because that's where they found it—it's a functional reminder that geese have their own unique biochemistry.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.