noun
vitamin
VIE-tuh-min/ˈvaɪtəmɪn/
An organic nutrient needed in small amounts for normal bodily function.
The dietitian recommends varied foods to supply the vitamins the family needs.
Etymology
The name combines “life” with “amine,” reflecting both these nutrients’ importance to life and an early chemical assumption. The name survived after scientists revised their understanding of the substances.
In context
Our keratinocytes also synthesize vitamin D from the sun, which is vital for our health.
Not getting enough vitamin C causes scurvy,
More examples
- Spinach provides vitamin K, which helps blood clot.
- A varied diet supplies most of the vitamins your body needs.
- She takes a daily vitamin to supplement her diet.
Forms
vitamin · vitamins
Similar words
- nutrient
- Broader term covering nourishing substances, including proteins, fats, and vitamins.
- micronutrient
- Includes both vitamins and minerals needed in small amounts.