free radical

noun

Definition of free radical

: an especially reactive atom or group of atoms that has one or more unpaired electrons especially : one that is produced in the body by natural biological processes or introduced from an outside source (such as tobacco smoke, toxins, or pollutants) and that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA by altering their chemical structure

Examples of free radical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Cloud Jelly's botanical extracts help brighten skin while infusing it with free radical-fighting antioxidants. — Devon Abelman, Allure, "Herbivore's New Cloud Jelly Is Cottagecore in a Bottle," 9 Apr. 2021 Created by oculofacial plastic surgeon Dr. Chaneve Jeanniton of Brooklyn Face & Eye, this serum protects skin from free radical damage, smooths wrinkles and brightens skin with its Vitamin C and antioxidant-rich formula. — Akili King, Vogue, "The Best Vitamin C Serums for a More Vibrant Complexion," 1 Apr. 2021 Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects against free radical damage in the skin that leads to pigmentation and naturally brightens the skin. — Dori Price, Good Housekeeping, "The Difference Between Hyperpigmentation and Melasma," 23 Mar. 2021 The anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant powers of Purslane and Skullcap work together to strengthen skin cells and protect against free radical damage. — Joseph Deacetis, Forbes, "Understanding Skincare That Will Make Your Feel Good Inside And Out.," 1 Mar. 2021 CoQ10 functions as an antioxidant and helps protect cells from free radical damage from environmental pollution. — Ana Sanchez, chicagotribune.com, "The best cardiovascular support supplement," 12 Dec. 2020 Mamet also uses Isdin Isdinceutics Flavo-C Ultraglican—a vitamin C skin treatment—to protect her skin from free radical damage (which can ultimately cause dark spots and fine lines) during the day. — Marianne Mychaskiw, Marie Claire, "How Zosia Mamet Built a Skincare Routine That Actually Works For Her," 1 Dec. 2020 Kiehl's featherweight lotion combats dry spots brilliantly with the help of free radical-fighting Vitamin E, while Marc Jacobs' gel creme moisturizer provides skin with powerful enzymes that target uneven texture and hydration. — Jenna Rennert, Vogue, "The 23 Best Face Moisturizers For All Skin Types in 2020," 20 Nov. 2020 Oxidative stress can result in free radical production. — Brian Lynn, Outdoor Life, "Training, Conditioning and Feeding for Success," 21 Sep. 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'free radical.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Last Updated

14 Apr 2021

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“Free radical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20radical. Accessed 20 Apr. 2021.

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More Definitions for free radical

free radical

noun

Medical Definition of free radical

: an especially reactive atom or group of atoms that has one or more unpaired electrons especially : one that is produced in the body by natural biological processes or introduced from outside (as in tobacco smoke, toxins, or pollutants) and that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA by altering their chemical structure

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