English

Noun

ilicin ‎(uncountable)

1. (organic chemistry) A bitter alkaloid found in holly.
   • 1852, John King, The Eclectic Dispensatory of the United States of America (page 220)

     They have a bitter, somewhat austere taste; their properties depend upon a principle called ilicin.

   • 1995, John Eastman, The Book of Swamp and Bog

     All Ilex hollies contain the bitter compound ilicin.

   • 1996, Peter D Bryson, Comprehensive Reviews in Toxicology: For Emergency Clinicians

     Ilicin is contained in holly berries (Ilex sp) and causes severe gastroirritation including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.