noun
actin
AK-tihn
noun
1
A protein that forms thin filaments inside cells, essential for muscle contraction and cell movement.
"Actin filaments help give the cell its shape and structure."
How to Use Actin
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA key protein in cells that builds the flexible internal scaffolding used for movement and muscle contraction.
When to use it
Mostly used in biology and medicine.
Word Forms
actins plural
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_____ filaments help give the cell its shape and structure.
Etymology
From Greek aktis ("ray"), referring to the ray-like arrangement of the filaments it forms, plus the chemical suffix -in.