Ganoin

/ˈɡænɔɪn/ noun

Definition

An alternative spelling of ganoine; the shiny, enamel-like substance that coats ganoid fish scales.

Etymology

From Greek ganos (lustre, brightness) plus -in (a suffix forming nouns, especially chemical compounds). An older or variant form of the term ganoine.

Kelly Says

Ganoin (or ganoine) is essentially nature's enamel paint—it's an organic coating so durable and lustrous that medieval and ancient peoples probably tried to copy it, not knowing it was a biological compound rather than a mineral.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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