phytonutrient

noun

phy·​to·​nu·​tri·​ent ˌfī-tō-ˈnü-trē-ənt 

-ˈnyü-

: a bioactive plant-derived compound (such as resveratrol) associated with positive health effects

Examples of phytonutrient in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Add-ins like fruit contribute additional nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients and more fiber, while nuts and seeds supply protein, magnesium, vitamin E and healthy unsaturated fats that support heart and brain health. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 21 Feb. 2026

Protective phytonutrients are natural compounds produced by plants to protect themselves from threats. —Beth Reese Cravey, Florida Times-Union, 7 Feb. 2026

Favoring plant protein comes with a bonus, says Ben-Asher, because the dietary fiber and phytonutrients only found in plants is fuel for healthy microorganisms that colonize gut microbiota. —Rachel Reiff Ellis, SELF, 5 Feb. 2026

Other noteworthy nutrients in sweet potatoes include manganese, copper, and phytonutrients, per Wright. —Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 4 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

phyto- + nutrient entry 2

First Known Use

1994, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for phytonutrient

• micronutrient
• nutrient

Medical Definition

phytonutrient

noun

phy·​to·​nu·​tri·​ent ˌfīt-ō-ˈn(y)ü-trē-ənt 

: a bioactive plant-derived compound (as resveratrol or sulforaphane) associated with positive health effects