phytoestrogen

noun

phy·​to·​es·​tro·​gen ˌfī-tō-ˈe-strə-jən 

: a chemical compound (such as genistein) that occurs naturally in plants and has estrogenic properties

Examples of phytoestrogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When estrogen levels are low, phytoestrogens can mimic the hormone's effects. — Joy Emeh, Health, 22 June 2026

The plant is popular in Traditional Chinese Medicine because it’s filled with phytoestrogens (thought to support women going through menopause), as well as may promote heart health and reduce inflammation. — Ana Morales, Vogue, 13 June 2026

This is a specific phytoestrogen found in soy products. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 4 Feb. 2026

Flaxseed Supplements Flaxseed supplements contain phytoestrogens called lignans, which imitate the estrogen in your body and in your birth control pills. — Sara Hoffman, Verywell Health, 11 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Phytoöstrogen, from phyto- phyto- + Östrogen estrogen

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

phytoestrogen

noun

phy·​to·​es·​tro·​gen -ˈes-trə-jən 

variants or chiefly British phyto-oestrogen

: a chemical compound (as genistein) that occurs naturally in plants and has estrogenic properties