vitamin C

noun

: a water-soluble vitamin C₆H₈O₆ found in plants and especially in fruits and leafy vegetables or made synthetically and used in the prevention and treatment of scurvy and as an antioxidant for foods

called also ascorbic acid

Examples of vitamin C in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Each serving contains 76% of your DV for vitamin C as well as silica from organic bamboo. To enjoy, simply mix one scoop into water for a deliciously hydrating drink packed with superfoods, such as mushrooms, raspberry, and acerola. —April Benshosan, Glamour, 18 Apr. 2024

Additionally, the antioxidants in vitamin C can neutralize free radicals, which Dr. Engelman says protects the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. —Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 17 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1920, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

vitamin C

noun

: a vitamin that is present especially in citrus fruits, tomatoes, and green vegetables and is needed by the body to prevent scurvy

called also ascorbic acid

Medical Definition

vitamin C

noun

: a water-soluble vitamin C₆H₈O₆ found in plants and especially in fruits and leafy vegetables or made synthetically and used in the prevention and treatment of scurvy and as an antioxidant for foods

called also ascorbic acid