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

The protein-rich food contains vitamins, minerals, cholesterol-fighting lecithin, and hormone-balancing phytoestrogens. — Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 23 July 2026

Key Takeaways Corn can be a nutritious option, especially in its whole or minimally processed forms, offering fiber, antioxidants, and various vitamins to support heart health and provide energy. — Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 23 July 2026

They’re also filled with nutrients beyond vitamin C, including folate, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and fiber. — Christina Manian, Health, 23 July 2026

Moreover, topping up on certain vitamins is no substitute for a healthy, balanced diet. — Cat Rainsford, Popular Science, 23 July 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