Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of carbohydrate: Dextrin is any of several polysaccharides produced by the partial breakdown (hydrolysis) of starch. It is a tasteless, odorless, and gummy or sticky substance.
   • An industrial and nutritional substance: Due to its properties, dextrin is commonly used as a thickening agent, in adhesives (glues), and as an ingredient in dietary supplements.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Dextrin is often added to soups and sauces to improve their texture.
  • The adhesive on this envelope contains dextrin derived from corn starch.
  • Some fiber supplements include dextrin to aid digestion.

Advanced Usage

• "Resistant dextrin": A specific type of dextrin that resists digestion and acts as a soluble dietary fiber, often used in functional foods and supplements.
  • Resistant dextrin is promoted for its prebiotic benefits, helping to support gut health.

Variants and Related Words

• Dextrinize (verb, rare): To convert starch into dextrin, typically through the application of heat or acid.
  • The manufacturing process dextrinizes the starch to create the adhesive.
• Dextrination (noun, rare): The process of producing dextrin.

Synonyms

• Starch gum: An informal term sometimes used for dextrin.
• Pyrodextrin: A specific type of dextrin produced by heating starch.

Notes on Meaning

• Chemical Context: In chemistry and food science, "dextrin" specifically refers to the products of starch hydrolysis, which are shorter carbohydrate chains than the original starch.
• Industrial Context: In manufacturing, "dextrin" typically denotes the dried, powdered form used in adhesives and coatings.
• Nutritional Context: In supplements, "dextrin" (especially "resistant maltodextrin" or "soluble corn fiber") is valued as a source of soluble fiber.

Noun

1. any of various polysaccharides obtained by hydrolysis of starch; a tasteless and odorless gummy substance that is used as a thickening agent and in adhesives and in dietary supplements