Brazilin

/ˈbræzɪlɪn/ noun

Definition

The main red-brown dye compound found in brasilwood, used historically to color textiles and leather.

Etymology

From 'brazil' (the dyewood) plus the chemical suffix '-in' (used for organic compounds like 'quinine,' 'tannin'). The wood 'brasil' comes from Portuguese, possibly from an Arabic or Indian language origin.

Kelly Says

Brazilin is chemically similar to indigo, which makes sense because both came from the tropics—but while indigo became globally famous, brazilin never quite matched its popularity, partly because it faded more easily in sunlight.

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