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

The artificial tongue is in fact a rectangular slab of flexible gel made of acrylic acid, choline chloride and skim milk powder, which was cured via exposure to ultraviolet light. —New Atlas, 21 Nov. 2025

Sherry said that in addition to the above, molasses is also higher in niacin, magnesium, choline, and pantothenic acid than honey. —Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 30 Oct. 2025

Through additional nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, choline, manganese, and more, this looks to provide support from pre-conception through nursing. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 17 Oct. 2025

Eggs are higher in choline, which is essential for brain health and metabolism. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 29 Sep. 2025

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