vitamin

noun

vi·​ta·​min ˈvī-tə-mən 

British usually

ˈvi- 

: any of various organic substances that are essential in minute quantities to the nutrition of most animals and some plants, act especially as coenzymes and precursors of coenzymes in the regulation of metabolic processes but do not provide energy or serve as building units, and are present in natural foodstuffs or sometimes produced within the body

Examples of vitamin in a Sentence

This cereal contains essential vitamins and minerals.

Did you remember to take your vitamin?

Recent Examples on the Web

Prioritize nutrient-dense foods, such as sunflower seeds and fatty fish, over supplements to ensure your body absorbs vitamins and minerals effectively. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 15 June 2026

Collagen-boosting peptides work over time to plump and smooth the appearance of wrinkles, hyaluronic acid hydrates and softens, and a protective cocktail of vitamins A, C, and E shields skin from daily environmental aggressors. —Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 13 June 2026

Back in the car, Moseder decided to take the vitamins immediately — a decision that would lead to an unforgettable mistake and a viral social media saga. —Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 13 June 2026

Superfoods are known as nutritional powerhouses, packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other essential components for a healthy lifestyle. —Samantha Johnson, Martha Stewart, 13 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

alteration of vitamine, from Latin vita life + English amine

First Known Use

circa 1912, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing vitamin

• B vitamin
• vitamin A
• vitamin B
• vitamin B complex
• vitamin C
• vitamin D
• vitamin E
• vitamin H
• vitamin K

Kids Definition

vitamin

noun

vi·​ta·​min ˈvīt-ə-mən 

: any of various substances that are necessary in very small amounts to the nutrition of most animals and some plants, that are important to the control of growth and development by activating and assisting in the function of enzymes, and that are present naturally in many foods or in some cases are produced within the body

Medical Definition

vitamin

noun

vi·​ta·​min ˈvīt-ə-mən, British also ˈvit- 

: any of various organic substances that are essential in minute quantities to the nutrition of most animals and some plants, act especially as coenzymes and precursors of coenzymes in the regulation of metabolic processes but do not provide energy or serve as building units, and are present in natural foodstuffs or are sometimes produced within the body