zeaxanthin

noun

ze·​a·​xan·​thin ˌzē-ə-ˈzan-thən 

: a yellow crystalline carotenoid alcohol C₄₀H₅₆O₂ that is isomeric with lutein and occurs especially in fruits and vegetables (such as kiwifruit and spinach) and egg yolks

Examples of zeaxanthin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This hydrating snack contains 28 mcg of vitamin A and other eye-healthy compounds, including lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 2 Sep. 2024

Research shows that lutein and zeaxanthin, as antioxidants, may promote eye health by reducing oxidative stress in the eye tissues and absorbing blue light. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 15 Aug. 2024

Cooked Spinach Spinach is a superfood rich in several nutrients, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 30 July 2024

Since the human lens contains lutein and zeaxanthin, supplying these nutrients through foods like purple carrots may be beneficial.8 The anthocyanins in purple carrots may also be eye-protective. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 29 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary zea- (from New Latin Zea) + xanthin carotenoid pigment, from xanth- + ¹-in

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

zeaxanthin

noun

ze·​a·​xan·​thin ˌzē-ə-ˈzan-thən 

: a yellow crystalline carotenoid alcohol C₄₀H₅₆O₂ that is isomeric with lutein and occurs widely with it and that is the chief pigment of yellow Indian corn