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

However, adding antioxidants—anti-inflammatory compounds, such as vitamin E—to the isothiocyanate vegetables could disrupt this process. —Hatty Willmoth, Newsweek, 24 Dec. 2024

May Reduce Cell Damage Annatto is a natural source of antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. —Devineé Lingo, M.s., Health, 21 Dec. 2024

One of its secret ingredients is prebiotic thermal water, which is rich in antioxidants. —Kat Romero, Rolling Stone, 20 Dec. 2024

It's packed with antioxidants and is an anti-inflammatory, according to Heathline. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 19 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