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

Milani Conceal + Perfect Sun Kissed Liquid Bronzer This lightweight liquid bronzer contains copper tripeptide-1, a carrier peptide, along with hydrating ingredients and skin-loving vitamins. — Mickey Williams, Flow Space, 9 Oct. 2026

Coconuts on the beach and mid-afternoon smoothies keep hydration and vitamin levels high. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026

The unnecessary additional testing included blood testing for hormones, heavy metal toxicity levels, vitamins and genetic testing, according to the indictment. — Angie Dimichele, Sun Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026

Apple With Peanut Butter An apple provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while peanut butter adds protein and healthy fats. — Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 8 Oct. 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 B6
• vitamin B complex
• vitamin C
• vitamin D3
• vitamin E
• vitamin H
• vitamin K3

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