: a chemical compound (such as beta-carotene) occurring naturally in plants
Examples of phytochemical in a Sentence
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Adjective
Blackberries are concentrated sources of the phytochemical ellagic acid, which acts as a powerful antioxidant.—Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 28 May 2025 Once the plant was more mature at around 3 years old, the team conducted a phytochemical analysis on its resin, leaves and branches to test for aromatic compounds, such as those found in myrrh.—Katie Hunt, CNN, 3 Oct. 2024
Noun
Polyphenols are types of phytochemicals (compounds known to provide health benefits) with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.—Jennifer Lefton, Verywell Health, 20 June 2025 Fruits and vegetables also contain myriad anti-inflammatory phytochemicals — naturally occurring compounds that provide an array of health benefits.—Jessica Dulong, CNN Money, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for phytochemical
Word History
Etymology
Adjective
phyto- + chemical entry 1, probably after New Latin phytochemicus or German phytochemisch
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