antioxidant

noun

an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌan-tē-ˈäk-sə-dənt How to pronounce antioxidant (audio)
ˌan-ˌtī-
: a substance (such as beta-carotene or vitamin C) that inhibits oxidation or reactions promoted by oxygen, peroxides, or free radicals
antioxidant adjective

Examples of antioxidant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Because they’re dried, prunes have more concentrated antioxidants than many fresh fruits. — Lindsey Desoto, HEALTH, 4 Nov. 2026 Then there are baobab oil and grapefruit extract, which add moisture and antioxidants. — Valeriya Chupinina, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2026 Key Takeaways Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber, magnesium, vitamin D, and plant compounds can help regulate inflammation and support overall health. — Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 4 Nov. 2026 To help protect cognitive function and prevent brain fog, experts recommend including enough omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants in your diet while keeping tabs on your vitamin B12, vitamin D, and iron levels. — Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 2 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for antioxidant

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of antioxidant was in 1919

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Antioxidant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antioxidant. Accessed 7 Nov. 2026.

Kids Definition

antioxidant

noun
an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌant-ē-ˈäk-səd-ənt How to pronounce antioxidant (audio)
ˌan-ˌtī-
: a substance that opposes oxidation or prevents or makes difficult reactions made easier by oxygen

Medical Definition

: any of various substances (as beta-carotene, vitamin C, and alpha-tocopherol) that inhibit oxidation or reactions promoted by oxygen and peroxides and that include many held to protect the living body from the deleterious effects of free radicals
antioxidant adjective

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