: 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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The powerhouse seed is also a good source of antioxidants, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids (specifically alpha-linolenic acid), lignans, magnesium, and vitamin B1.
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Christina Chaey, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Sep. 2025
Key Takeaways Flaxseed's nutrients, such as dietary fiber, lignans, and omega-3 fatty acids, have been found to help manage blood lipid levels and lower high blood pressure.
—Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 27 Aug. 2025
Flaxseeds Flaxseeds contain high levels of lignans.
—Lauren O'Connor, Health, 6 Aug. 2025
Tahini is high in antioxidants, especially lignans such as sesamin, which reduce the damage caused by free radicals in our bodies.
—Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 31 May 2025
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Christina Chaey, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Sep. 2025
Key Takeaways Flaxseed's nutrients, such as dietary fiber, lignans, and omega-3 fatty acids, have been found to help manage blood lipid levels and lower high blood pressure.
—Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 27 Aug. 2025
Flaxseeds Flaxseeds contain high levels of lignans.
—Lauren O'Connor, Health, 6 Aug. 2025
Tahini is high in antioxidants, especially lignans such as sesamin, which reduce the damage caused by free radicals in our bodies.
—Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 31 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Lignan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lignan. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.
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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