insulin

noun

Etymology: From Latin īnsula (“island”) (named for the islets of Langerhans, where insulin is produced) + -in.

1. A polypeptide hormone that regulates carbohydrate metabolism (in various animals including humans).

   “Mommy said that Grandma's diabetes happened because her body stopped making its own insulin.”

   “Ask a dozen persons to tell you what they know about insulin and you will get some surprising and contradictory answers. The truth is this: Insulin is not a cure for diabetes, but it is helping to prolong and gladden lives.”

2. Any exogenous preparation of this hormone for use as a medication.

   “The advent of insulin in the mid-20th century changed the lives of millions of people with diabetes.”

3. Any exogenous preparation of this hormone or its analogues for use as a medication.

   “A: What kind of insulin do you take? B: I use basal-bolus therapy, which in my case involves glargine and lispro.”