zeaxanthin

noun

ze·​a·​xan·​thin ˌzē-ə-ˈzan-thən 

: a yellow crystalline carotenoid alcohol C₄₀H₅₆O₂ that is isomeric with lutein and occurs especially in fruits and vegetables (such as kiwifruit and spinach) and egg yolks

Examples of zeaxanthin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The green color comes from a concentration of catechins, lutein, and zeaxanthin. —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 11 Aug. 2025

Supports Eye and Vision Health Spinach contains two pigments called carotenoids that are linked to eye health: lutein and zeaxanthin. —Abby Norman, Verywell Health, 21 July 2025

Secondary results from the study also found that the egg diet raised levels of lutein and zeaxanthin – carotenoids in egg yolk known to support brain and eye health, and help protect the body from inflammation – in plasma. —New Atlas, 20 July 2025

Zucchini have lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids key to healthy eyes. —Alice Oglethorpe, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary zea- (from New Latin Zea) + xanthin carotenoid pigment, from xanth- + ¹-in

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

zeaxanthin

noun

ze·​a·​xan·​thin ˌzē-ə-ˈzan-thən 

: a yellow crystalline carotenoid alcohol C₄₀H₅₆O₂ that is isomeric with lutein and occurs widely with it and that is the chief pigment of yellow Indian corn