canthaxanthin

noun

can·​tha·​xan·​thin ˌkan(t)-thə-ˈzan-ˌthin 

: a naturally occurring carotenoid C₄₀H₅₂O₂ used especially as a color additive for food

Word History

Etymology

cantha- (from New Latin Cantharellus cinnabarinus, mushroom species from which it was obtained) + xantho- + -in entry 1 — more at chanterelle

First Known Use

circa 1951, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

canthaxanthin

noun

can·​tha·​xan·​thin ˌkan(t)-thə-ˈzan-ˌthin 

: a carotenoid C₄₀H₅₂O₂ used especially as a color additive for food