\Sac"cha*rin\ (s[a^]k"k[.a]*r[i^]n), n. [F., from L.
saccharon sugar.] (Chem.)
A bitter white crystalline substance obtained from the
saccharinates and regarded as the lactone of saccharinic
acid; -- so called because formerly supposed to be isomeric
with cane sugar (saccharose).