English · Body & Health
vitamin
/ˈvaɪ.tə.mɪn/
[/ˈvaɪ.tə.mɪn/]
essential nutrient
Beginnernoun
Definition
A natural substance found in food that the body needs in small amounts to stay healthy and work properly.
Example
Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, which helps the body fight off infections.
Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, which helps the body fight off infections.
Etymology
Coined in 1912 by Casimir Funk from Latin 'vita' (life) and 'amine', as he thought they were amines.
How & Where It’s Used
Common in health, food labeling, and supplement discussions.