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.
Adding antioxidant-rich herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, oregano and garlic can further reduce harmful high-heat byproducts in cooked meats and baked foods, according to multiple studies. Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 17 Oct. 2025 Key Takeaways Cucumbers contain vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants that support skin, bone, heart, and blood pressure health. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 17 Oct. 2025 Cardamom contains phenolic compounds and oils that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.3 Research findings suggest that cardamom may help lower inflammatory markers.4 How to use it: Cardamom seeds can be ground and added to baked goods, sauces, and curries. Jillian Kubala, Health, 7 Oct. 2025 Known to relieve nausea and bloating, ginger contains antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 4 Oct. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Antioxidant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antioxidant. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

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

antioxidant

noun
an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌant-ē-ˈäk-səd-ənt, ˌan-ˌtī- How to pronounce antioxidant (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on antioxidant

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