beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene ˈbā-tə-ˈker-ə-ˌtēn 

-ˈka-rə-

: an isomer of carotene found in dark green and dark yellow vegetables and fruits

Examples of beta-carotene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Spinach, kale, and collards are rich in antioxidant vitamins and minerals essential for anti-aging, including beta-carotene, vitamin C, folic acid, and potassium. —Vogue, 12 Dec. 2025

One carotenoid-processing gene, called beta-carotene oxygenase 2, or BCO2, has been shared several times within this single family of birds. —David Toews, The Conversation, 11 Dec. 2025

Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-dense option, providing fiber and key vitamins and minerals like potassium, vitamin A, and beta-carotene. —Abby Norman, Verywell Health, 1 Dec. 2025

Leafy greens contain antioxidants and other brain-protective compounds, like lutein, folate, and beta-carotene. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Health, 24 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for beta-carotene

• antisubmarine
• catecholamine
• dichlorobenzene
• dimethylamine
• diphenylamine
• ethanolamine
• hydroxylamine
• isobutylene
• mercaptopurine
• nucleoprotein
• penicillamine
• phenothiazine

Kids Definition

beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene

-ˈkar-ə-ˌtēn

: a form of carotene found in dark green and dark yellow vegetables and fruits

Medical Definition

beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene

variants or β-carotene

-ˈkar-ə-ˌtēn 

: a reddish-orange pigment that is an an isomer of carotene found chiefly in orange and dark green and yellow vegetables and fruits (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach) and that is converted to vitamin A in the body

Note: Beta-carotene is the most active and widespread provitamin A and is derived commercially from natural sources or is prepared synthetically.