phytonutrient

noun

phy·​to·​nu·​tri·​ent ˌfī-tō-ˈnü-trē-ənt How to pronounce phytonutrient (audio)
-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
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.
The smell Cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, kale, broccoli and Brussels sprouts contain glucosinolate, a unique phytonutrient that’s made up of amino acids, glucose, nitrogen and sulfur. Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 18 Sep. 2025 Potential Risks of the Sardine Diet A sardine-only diet would create a number of nutrient deficiencies, including in fiber, vitamin C, and many phytonutrients that come from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, Taub-Dix says. Erica Sweeney, EverydayHealth.com, 25 Aug. 2025 Sweet Potato With Skin Nutritional Information Whole sweet potatoes are a source of carbohydrates, many micronutrients, and phytonutrients (plant compounds thought to provide human health benefits). Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 18 Aug. 2025 Elderberries have a high concentration of anthocyanins, phytonutrients known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Hannah Singleton, Health, 29 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for phytonutrient

Word History

Etymology

phyto- + nutrient entry 2

First Known Use

1994, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phytonutrient was in 1994

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Cite this Entry

“Phytonutrient.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phytonutrient. Accessed 24 Oct. 2025.

Medical Definition

phytonutrient

noun
phy·​to·​nu·​tri·​ent ˌfīt-ō-ˈn(y)ü-trē-ənt How to pronounce phytonutrient (audio)
: a bioactive plant-derived compound (as resveratrol or sulforaphane) associated with positive health effects
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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