Definition

A reddish-brown crystalline substance used in laboratories as a stain for biological samples and as an indicator in chemical reactions.

Example

The scientist used hematein to stain the tissue samples for better visibility under the microscope.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of hematein?

Yeah, it’s that reddish-brown compound used for staining in biology, right?

Exactly! I was reading about its use as an indicator in experiments.

That’s really interesting — I didn’t know it had so many applications!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hematein is derived from the Greek word "haima" (meaning blood) and the suffix "-ein" (often used in chemical compounds). The term refers to a compound related to blood, particularly in its use as a dye derived from the logwood tree, which has a blood-red color.

Memory Tip

Think of 'haima' meaning blood, which helps you remember that 'hematein' is related to a blood-like color or dye.

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