What is "crocein"

Crocein \Cro"ce*in\ (kr?"s?-?n), n. [See Croceous.] (Chem.) A name given to any one of several yellow or scarlet dyestuffs of artificial production and complex structure. In general they are diazo and sulphonic acid derivatives of benzene and naphthol.

n. (context organic compound English) Any of several synthetic yellow or scarlet dyestuffs that are diazo and sulphonic acid derivatives of benzene and naphthol.