antioxidant

noun

an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌan-tē-ˈäk-sə-dənt 

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

Follow up with the Lait Vital Conditioner for a double dose of moisturizing antioxidants and proteins. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 14 Dec. 2024

Curcumin supplements are under study for their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.1 But could turmeric in your food or curcumin supplements also be used to spice up your love life? —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 14 Dec. 2024

On Earth, the antioxidant could be used for protection against accidents that release radiation. —Ashley Strickland, CNN, 11 Dec. 2024

My focus is really getting the highest amount of phytonutrients [and] antioxidants in my food. —Renée Onque, CNBC, 7 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

antioxidant

noun

an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌant-ē-ˈäk-səd-ənt 

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- 

: 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