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

Several compounds found in loquats, including β-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, may protect against common eye conditions and support overall eye health by reducing oxidative damage and inflammation. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 16 July 2024

Spinach and kale also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that benefit eye health. —Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 28 Apr. 2024

In addition to the vitamins and minerals found in kale, the cruciferous vegetable contains phytochemicals like beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin that are important for eye health. —Bethany Thayer, Detroit Free Press, 25 May 2024

Protects Your Eyes Two pigments found in grapes, lutein and zeaxanthin, protect eye health. —Cynthia Sass, Mph, Health, 24 Dec. 2023

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