choline

noun

cho·​line ˈkō-ˌlēn 

: a basic compound C₅H₁₄NO that is found in various foods (such as egg yolks and legumes) or is synthesized in the liver, that is a component of lecithin and a precursor of acetylcholine, and that is essential to the metabolism of fat in the liver and is usually included in the vitamin B complex

Examples of choline in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to being an outstanding source of quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, eggs contain choline, an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in brain health and helps to reduce stress and anxiety by improving emotional well-being. —Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 23 June 2025

Along with vitamin B12, an egg provides 6 grams (g) of protein, 92 milligrams (mg) of potassium, 24 mg of calcium, 155 mg of choline, 90 mcg of vitamin A, and 50 International Units (IU) of vitamin D.5 4. —Ashley Braun, Verywell Health, 1 July 2025

On top of their impressive protein content, eggs are also packed with vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin D, and a brain health-promoting nutrient called choline. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 30 June 2025

Tuesday, the supplement brand is announcing its latest clinical trial on its Prenatal Multivitamin, $39, a capsule supplement available in a mint or citrus essence formulated with 12 essential nutrients like biotin, choline and DHA. —Emily Burns, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2019

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

circa 1871, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

choline

noun

cho·​line ˈkō-ˌlēn 

: a vitamin of the vitamin B complex that is widely distributed in animal and plant products (as eggs and beans) and is necessary for the activities of the liver

Medical Definition

choline

noun

cho·​line ˈkō-ˌlēn 

: a basic compound C₅H₁₄NO that is found in various foods (as egg yolk and legumes) or is synthesized in the liver and that is a component of lecithin, is a precursor of acetylcholine, and is essential to liver function