antioxidant

noun

an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌan-tē-ˈäk-sə-dənt How to pronounce antioxidant (audio)
ˌan-ˌtī-
: a substance (such as beta-carotene or vitamin C) that inhibits oxidation or reactions promoted by oxygen, peroxides, or free radicals
antioxidant adjective

Examples of antioxidant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins, antioxidants and glucosinolates, Goy said. Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 11 Mar. 2026 An antioxidant, the ingredient also fends off free radicals to slow hyperpigmentation, among other signs of aging. Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 11 Mar. 2026 Full of fiber and antioxidants, sorghum packs in an impressive amount of protein (about 10 grams per cup) for a whole grain. Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Mar. 2026 Importantly, antioxidants from fruits and vegetables (the color) are missing from boy kibble. Melissa Willets, Parents, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for antioxidant

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of antioxidant was in 1919

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Antioxidant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antioxidant. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

antioxidant

noun
an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌant-ē-ˈäk-səd-ənt How to pronounce antioxidant (audio)
ˌan-ˌtī-
: a substance that opposes oxidation or prevents or makes difficult reactions made easier by oxygen

Medical Definition

antioxidant

noun
an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌant-ē-ˈäk-səd-ənt, ˌan-ˌtī- How to pronounce antioxidant (audio)
: any of various substances (as beta-carotene, vitamin C, and alpha-tocopherol) that inhibit oxidation or reactions promoted by oxygen and peroxides and that include many held to protect the living body from the deleterious effects of free radicals
antioxidant adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on antioxidant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster