Definition

A substance found in the indigo plant and in animal fluids, used to produce indigo dye and formed from the breakdown of tryptophan by bacteria.

Example

Indican is important in the production of natural indigo dye from the indigo plant.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of indican?

Yeah, it's that substance found in the indigo plant, right?

Exactly! It's used to make the dye that gives jeans their color.

That's pretty cool; I didn't know it had such a natural source!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Indican is derived from 'indica' (from Latin 'indicum', meaning from India) and the suffix '-an' (meaning pertaining to). The word refers to something that is related to or derived from India, particularly in the context of the indigo dye or plant.

Memory Tip

Think of 'indica' meaning from India, and the '-an' suffix indicating something related. This helps you remember that 'indican' pertains to something from India.

Visually Confused Words