: any of a class of propyl phenolic dimers including many found in plants and noted for having antioxidant and estrogenic activity
Examples of lignan in a Sentence
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Ground Flaxseed Ground flaxseed provides ALA omega-3 fats, soluble fiber, and plant compounds called lignans.
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Lindsey Desoto, Health, 30 Apr. 2026
What's more, fiber is essential for digestion, while lignans protect cells from oxidative stress.
—Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 10 Apr. 2026
Rye also contains phenolic compounds and lignans, antioxidants that are linked to better blood vessel function and lower inflammation, said Davar.
—Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 8 Apr. 2026
Whole-grain rye is also rich in plant compounds, including phenolic acids and lignans – antioxidants that Young says have been studied for their potential role in reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health.
—Daryl Austin, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
Flaxseeds also contain cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber and compounds called lignans, which may support healthy blood vessels.
—Beth Krietsch, SELF, 22 Jan. 2026
There are thousands of different polyphenols that are grouped into categories such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes and lignans.
—Leeann Weintraub, Daily News, 11 Dec. 2025
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Lindsey Desoto, Health, 30 Apr. 2026
What's more, fiber is essential for digestion, while lignans protect cells from oxidative stress.
—Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 10 Apr. 2026
Rye also contains phenolic compounds and lignans, antioxidants that are linked to better blood vessel function and lower inflammation, said Davar.
—Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 8 Apr. 2026
Whole-grain rye is also rich in plant compounds, including phenolic acids and lignans – antioxidants that Young says have been studied for their potential role in reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health.
—Daryl Austin, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
Flaxseeds also contain cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber and compounds called lignans, which may support healthy blood vessels.
—Beth Krietsch, SELF, 22 Jan. 2026
There are thousands of different polyphenols that are grouped into categories such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes and lignans.
—Leeann Weintraub, Daily News, 11 Dec. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Lignan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lignan. Accessed 21 May. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
lignan
noun
lig·nan
ˈlig-ˌnan 
: any of a class of polyphenolic compounds including many found in plants and noted for having antioxidant and estrogenic activity
In the process of digestion, bacteria convert lignans into estrogen-like substances …—Wellness Letter
Wellness LetterThe major types of phytoestrogens are thought to be isoflavones, found in soy protein, and lignans, found in flaxseeds, whole grains, and some fruits and vegetables.—Consumer Reports
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