[f. Gr. κέρας, κερατ- horn + -IN1.] An organic substance found in horn.
1847–9. Todd, Cycl. Anat., IV. 169/1. The form in which protein exists in hair, horn, nails, and the epidermis, and called by Simon keratine, has been but imperfectly examined.
1873. Ralfe, Phys. Chem., 43. Keratin … obtained by treating pounded horny matter … with boiling alcohol and ether.
