n :  an acyclic hydrocarbon C₃₀H₅₀ that is widely distributed in nature (as a major component of sebum and in shark-liver oils) and is a precursor of sterols (as cholesterol) .
 
 
 
Similar sounding terms:  cy·clin   scalene 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2021.