1. A class of organic compounds found in plants, characterized by a benzene ring fused to a pyrone ring; used in perfumes, flavorings, and pharmaceuticals.
Usage: chemistry; plural form of coumarin; also spelled 'coumarines' in some contexts

Examples

• Coumarins are naturally occurring compounds found in vanilla, cinnamon, and tonka beans.
• The pharmaceutical industry uses coumarins as precursors for anticoagulant drugs.
• Many coumarins have pleasant aromatic properties that make them valuable in the fragrance industry.
• Researchers study coumarins for their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Certain coumarins are used as fluorescent dyes in scientific applications.