glycan

noun

gly·​can ˈglī-ˌkan How to pronounce glycan (audio)
: polysaccharide

Examples of glycan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Every cell in the body is coated with sugar molecules called glycans. — Charles J. Dimitroff, The Conversation, 12 June 2026 These sugar chains, called glycans, are attached after proteins are made, forming the process known as glycosylation. — New Atlas, 5 Oct. 2025 This ingredient also increases your skin’s levels of glycan (the complex sugars that are naturally present in your skin), taking its natural smoothness to a heavenly level. — Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 4 Apr. 2025 Cell-surface glycans influence everything from receptor signaling and immune recognition to adhesion and trafficking. — Kj Dhaliwal, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for glycan

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of glycan was in 1950

Rhymes for glycan

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Browse Nearby Words

glyc-
glycan
glycated hemoglobin
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Cite this Entry

“Glycan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/glycan. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

More from Merriam-Webster on glycan

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about glycan

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