vitamin

noun

vi·​ta·​min ˈvī-tə-mən 

British usually

ˈvi- 

: any of various organic substances that are essential in minute quantities to the nutrition of most animals and some plants, act especially as coenzymes and precursors of coenzymes in the regulation of metabolic processes but do not provide energy or serve as building units, and are present in natural foodstuffs or sometimes produced within the body

Examples of vitamin in a Sentence

This cereal contains essential vitamins and minerals.

Did you remember to take your vitamin?

Recent Examples on the Web

May Support Weight Loss Despite containing a variety of vitamins and minerals, Zucchini is very low in calories. — Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Health, 30 July 2026

Key Takeaways Watermelon contains water, vitamins, minerals, and a small amount of fiber, all of which are beneficial for maintaining regular bowel movements. — Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 30 July 2026

Bell peppers also contain vitamin K, though much less than leafy green vegetables. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 29 July 2026

Enjoy a Nutrient-Rich Diet Diet is also important—make sure to include foods rich in iron, vitamins K, C, and B12 in your daily meals. — Laura Sandroni, Vogue, 29 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

alteration of vitamine, from Latin vita life + English amine

First Known Use

circa 1912, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing vitamin

• B vitamin
• vitamin A
• vitamin B
• vitamin B complex
• vitamin C
• vitamin D
• vitamin E
• vitamin H
• vitamin K

Kids Definition

vitamin

noun

vi·​ta·​min ˈvīt-ə-mən 

: any of various substances that are necessary in very small amounts to the nutrition of most animals and some plants, that are important to the control of growth and development by activating and assisting in the function of enzymes, and that are present naturally in many foods or in some cases are produced within the body

Medical Definition

vitamin

noun

vi·​ta·​min ˈvīt-ə-mən, British also ˈvit- 

: any of various organic substances that are essential in minute quantities to the nutrition of most animals and some plants, act especially as coenzymes and precursors of coenzymes in the regulation of metabolic processes but do not provide energy or serve as building units, and are present in natural foodstuffs or are sometimes produced within the body