keratin

Definition

Keratin is a protein that makes up your hair, skin, and nails. It's a tough protein that helps protect your body from the outside world. Keratin is made up of long chains of amino acids that are connected together. The amino acids in keratin are arranged in a way that makes the protein very strong and flexible. This is why your hair can be styled without breaking, and why your skin can withstand the elements.

How can the word be used?

The keratin in my hair is what makes it strong and resilient.

Different forms of the word

Noun: Keratin is a fibrous protein that is the main component of hair, nails, skin, and other structures in the body.

Adjective: Keratinised tissues are those that have been hardened by keratin. The outer layer of skin is keratinised, as are hair and nails.

Verb: To keratinise is to harden a tissue by depositing keratin in it. The skin keratinises when it is exposed to the sun or wind.

Etymology

The word "keratin" comes from the Greek word "κέρας" (kéras), which means "horn". Keratin is named for its horn-like texture.

Question

What is keratin?