nutrient

1 of 2

adjective

nu·​tri·​ent ˈnü-trē-ənt 

ˈnyü-

: furnishing nourishment

nutrient

2 of 2

noun

: a substance or ingredient that promotes growth, provides energy, and maintains life

Tomatoes contain a lot of nutrients, among them vitamins C and B-complex and the minerals iron and potassium.

—Mayo Clinic Health Letter

Most frugivores do not depend exclusively on fruits, because fruits tend to be deficient in certain nutrients such as protein, and because they are only seasonally available.

—Robert Lee Smith

Sandy soils need organic amendments to help them retain nutrients and water, which otherwise leach out quickly.

—Sunset

Synonyms of nutrient

Adjective

• nutritional
• nutritive

Examples of nutrient in a Sentence

Adjective

a breakfast drink enriched with nutrient proteins and vitamins

Noun

Fruits and vegetables have important nutrients.

The soil is low in nutrients.

You need more nutrients in your diet.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Scientists say the delta’s naturally nutrient-rich waters provide a great buffet for the crabs and other marine life. — Kasha Patel, CNN Money, 18 July 2026

Flush Away Excess Fertilizer Hydrangeas thrive in nutrient-rich soil amended by compost or other organic matter. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 15 July 2026

Noun

Since cyclosporiasis can last a long time, the constant dehydration and lack of ability to take in nutrients can take a toll on the body. — Elise Haulund, CNN Money, 18 July 2026

Supporting digestive health, nutrient absorption and promoting a stronger immune system are just a few of probiotic’s benefits. — Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin nutrient-, nutriens, present participle of nutrire to nourish — more at nourish

First Known Use

Adjective

1650, in the meaning defined above

Noun

circa 1828, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for nutrient

• micronutrient

Kids Definition

nutrient

1 of 2 adjective

nu·​tri·​ent ˈn(y)ü-trē-ənt 

: furnishing nourishment

nutrient

2 of 2 noun

: a nutrient substance or ingredient

Medical Definition

nutrient

1 of 2 adjective

nu·​tri·​ent ˈn(y)ü-trē-ənt 

: furnishing nourishment

nutrient

2 of 2 noun

: a nutritive substance or ingredient