: any of a group of proteins especially of plants that are not antibodies and do not originate in an immune system but bind specifically to carbohydrate-containing receptors on cell surfaces (as of red blood cells)
Examples of lectin in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Fermentation breaks down compounds called phytates and lectins that normally prevent your body from absorbing minerals in foods like beans and grains.
—
Allison Palmer,
Kansas City Star,
10 Apr. 2026
Fermentation also breaks down antinutrients like phytates and lectins that block nutrient absorption, making the minerals in foods like beans and grains more available to your body.
—
Allison Palmer,
Sacbee.com,
9 Apr. 2026
Fermentation breaks down compounds called phytates and lectins that normally block mineral absorption in foods like beans and grains.
—
Allison Palmer,
Charlotte Observer,
9 Apr. 2026
Another important theory behind the diet is how proteins called lectins interact with blood.
—
Patty Weasler,
Verywell Health,
5 June 2025
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Allison Palmer,
Kansas City Star,
10 Apr. 2026
Fermentation also breaks down antinutrients like phytates and lectins that block nutrient absorption, making the minerals in foods like beans and grains more available to your body.
—
Allison Palmer,
Sacbee.com,
9 Apr. 2026
Fermentation breaks down compounds called phytates and lectins that normally block mineral absorption in foods like beans and grains.
—
Allison Palmer,
Charlotte Observer,
9 Apr. 2026
Another important theory behind the diet is how proteins called lectins interact with blood.
—
Patty Weasler,
Verywell Health,
5 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Lectin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lectin. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
lectin
noun
lec·tin
ˈlek-tən 
: any of a group of proteins especially of plants that are not antibodies and do not originate in an immune system but bind specifically to carbohydrate-containing receptors on cell surfaces (as of red blood cells)
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