beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene ˈbā-tə-ˈker-ə-ˌtēn 

-ˈka-rə-

: an isomer of carotene found in dark green and dark yellow vegetables and fruits

Examples of beta-carotene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Butternut squash is a vegetable loaded with fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants like beta-carotene. —Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 25 Aug. 2025

The basil in this recipe has a wealth of antioxidants like lutein, zeaxanthin and beta-carotene. —Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 24 Aug. 2025

However, large randomized trials have shown that some antioxidant supplements increased cancer risk in certain groups – in smokers, for example, beta-carotene may act as a pro-oxidant, worsening rather than preventing cancer. —New Atlas, 15 Aug. 2025

While beta-carotene from plant sources is generally safe, very high intakes over time may interfere with certain medications such as retinoids or blood thinners. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 9 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for beta-carotene

• antisubmarine
• catecholamine
• dichlorobenzene
• dimethylamine
• diphenylamine
• ethanolamine
• hydroxylamine
• isobutylene
• mercaptopurine
• nucleoprotein
• penicillamine
• phenothiazine

Kids Definition

beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene

-ˈkar-ə-ˌtēn

: a form of carotene found in dark green and dark yellow vegetables and fruits

Medical Definition

beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene

variants or β-carotene

-ˈkar-ə-ˌtēn 

: a reddish-orange pigment that is an an isomer of carotene found chiefly in orange and dark green and yellow vegetables and fruits (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach) and that is converted to vitamin A in the body

Note: Beta-carotene is the most active and widespread provitamin A and is derived commercially from natural sources or is prepared synthetically.