phytochemical

1 of 2

adjective

phy·​to·​chem·​i·​cal ˌfī-tō-ˈke-mi-kəl How to pronounce phytochemical (audio)
: of, relating to, or being phytochemistry
phytochemically adverb

phytochemical

2 of 2

noun

: a chemical compound (such as beta-carotene) occurring naturally in plants

Examples of phytochemical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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

Noun

phyto- + chemical entry 2

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1858, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1966, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phytochemical was circa 1858

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Cite this Entry

“Phytochemical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phytochemical. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

phytochemical

1 of 2 adjective
phy·​to·​chem·​i·​cal -ˈkem-i-kəl How to pronounce phytochemical (audio)
: of, relating to, or being phytochemistry
phytochemically adverb

phytochemical

2 of 2 noun
: a chemical compound (as a carotenoid or phytosterol) occurring naturally in plants
especially : phytonutrient

More from Merriam-Webster on phytochemical

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