Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
melanin
noun
/ˈmɛləˌnɪn/
Definition
Melanin is a natural pigment found in the skin, hair, and eyes of humans and other animals.
Examples
- Melanin is responsible for the varying colors of human skin.
- People with higher levels of melanin often have darker skin.
- Some animals have special adaptations involving melanin to camouflage themselves in their environment.
Meaning
It gives color to our skin and protects it from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
Synonyms
- pigment
- colorant
- dyestuff
