beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene ˈbā-tə-ˈker-ə-ˌtēn 

-ˈka-rə-

: an isomer of carotene found in dark green and dark yellow vegetables and fruits

Examples of beta-carotene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

However, large randomized trials have shown that some antioxidant supplements increased cancer risk in certain groups – in smokers, for example, beta-carotene may act as a pro-oxidant, worsening rather than preventing cancer. —New Atlas, 15 Aug. 2025

While beta-carotene from plant sources is generally safe, very high intakes over time may interfere with certain medications such as retinoids or blood thinners. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 9 Aug. 2025

Wang explains that the beta-carotene and lycopene in BBQ sauce and ketchup fade when exposed to UV light. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Aug. 2025

Nectarines are rich in powerful antioxidants, including polyphenols, vitamin C, and carotenoids such as beta-carotene and cryptoxanthin.15 The highest concentration of antioxidants is in the fruit's skin. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 23 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for beta-carotene

• antisubmarine
• catecholamine
• dichlorobenzene
• dimethylamine
• diphenylamine
• ethanolamine
• hydroxylamine
• isobutylene
• mercaptopurine
• nucleoprotein
• penicillamine
• phenothiazine

Kids Definition

beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene

-ˈkar-ə-ˌtēn

: a form of carotene found in dark green and dark yellow vegetables and fruits

Medical Definition

beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene

variants or β-carotene

-ˈkar-ə-ˌtēn 

: a reddish-orange pigment that is an an isomer of carotene found chiefly in orange and dark green and yellow vegetables and fruits (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach) and that is converted to vitamin A in the body

Note: Beta-carotene is the most active and widespread provitamin A and is derived commercially from natural sources or is prepared synthetically.