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

Much of the research has focused on red wine, which contains antioxidants called polyphenols. —Kaitlin Sullivan, Health, 28 Jan. 2025

What Lowers the Nutritional Value of Hazelnuts Some studies have found that the hazelnut husk is high in antioxidants. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 28 Jan. 2025

The goji berries add a welcome surprise of color, taste, and antioxidant goodness. —Ingu Chen, Vogue, 27 Jan. 2025

Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 with antioxidant capabilities, is the multihyphenate superstar in this formula. —Dana Leigh Smith, Glamour, 23 Jan. 2025

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