riboflavin

noun

ri·​bo·​fla·​vin ˌrī-bə-ˈflā-vən 

ˈrī-bə-ˌflā-

: a yellow crystalline compound C₁₇H₂₀N₄O₆ of the vitamin B complex that occurs both free (as in milk) and combined (as in liver) as a component of coenzymes (such as FMN) which are essential to normal metabolism

called also vitamin B₂

Examples of riboflavin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These include calcium, vitamins D (when fortified) and B12, niacin, phosphorus, riboflavin, pantothenic acid. —Maxine Lipner, Verywell Health, 10 Jan. 2025

Maple syrup has a higher concentration of nutrients such as potassium, calcium, riboflavin, and zinc. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 6 Jan. 2025

Messer adds that many varieties of instant ramen also provide micronutrients like thiamine and riboflavin, which can be good for immune health, digestive health, and skin health. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 2 Jan. 2025

Maple syrup is a significant source of riboflavin and manganese and contains detectable amounts of calcium and vitamin K. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 18 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary ribo- + Latin flavus yellow — more at blue

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

riboflavin

noun

ri·​bo·​fla·​vin ˌrī-bə-ˈflā-vən 

: a vitamin of the vitamin B complex that helps growth and is found both free (as in milk) and combined with other substances (as in liver)

called also vitamin B₂

Medical Definition

riboflavin

noun

ri·​bo·​fla·​vin ˌrī-bə-ˈflā-vən, ˈrī-bə-ˌ 

variants also riboflavine

-ˌvēn 

: a yellow crystalline compound C₁₇H₂₀N₄O₆ that is a growth-promoting member of the vitamin B complex and occurs both free (as in milk) and combined (as in liver)

called also lactoflavin, ovoflavin, vitamin B₂