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

The rich formula is packed with shea butter and vitamins C and E—and the various scents just so happen to smell amazing. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 16 May 2025

Burgers typically include meat with protein, tomatoes, lettuce, and a bun, which Ballantyne explains in the video can be a good source of vitamin K, vitamin C, biotin, and around 3 grams of fiber. —Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 May 2025

Grapefruit is a citrus fruit known as a strong source of vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and other vital nutrients. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 14 May 2025

And this Olay moisturizer is formulated with vitamin C to hydrate, nourish, and brighten your complexion in one fell swoop. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 11 May 2025

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 B6
• vitamin B complex
• vitamin C
• vitamin D3
• vitamin E
• vitamin H
• vitamin K3

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