phytochemical

1 of 2

adjective

phy·​to·​chem·​i·​cal ˌfī-tō-ˈke-mi-kəl How to pronounce phytochemical (audio)
: of, relating to, or being phytochemistry
phytochemically adverb

phytochemical

2 of 2

noun

: a chemical compound (such as beta-carotene) occurring naturally in plants

Examples of phytochemical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Adjective
Blackberries are concentrated sources of the phytochemical ellagic acid, which acts as a powerful antioxidant. Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 28 May 2025 Once the plant was more mature at around 3 years old, the team conducted a phytochemical analysis on its resin, leaves and branches to test for aromatic compounds, such as those found in myrrh. Katie Hunt, CNN, 3 Oct. 2024
Noun
These phytochemicals have the following properties and provide health benefits:1 1. Melissa Porrey Lpc, Verywell Health, 28 Feb. 2025 Additionally, phytochemicals in blueberries are linked to various health benefits, including cancer-fighting properties. Justin Gest, Newsweek, 10 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for phytochemical

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

phyto- + chemical entry 1, probably after New Latin phytochemicus or German phytochemisch

Noun

phyto- + chemical entry 2

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1858, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1966, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phytochemical was circa 1858

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Cite this Entry

“Phytochemical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phytochemical. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

phytochemical

1 of 2 adjective
phy·​to·​chem·​i·​cal -ˈkem-i-kəl How to pronounce phytochemical (audio)
: of, relating to, or being phytochemistry
phytochemically adverb

phytochemical

2 of 2 noun
: a chemical compound (as a carotenoid or phytosterol) occurring naturally in plants
especially : phytonutrient

More from Merriam-Webster on phytochemical

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