phytoestrogen

noun

phy·​to·​es·​tro·​gen ˌfī-tō-ˈe-strə-jən How to pronounce phytoestrogen (audio)
: a chemical compound (such as genistein) that occurs naturally in plants and has estrogenic properties

Examples of phytoestrogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Isoflavones and Anthocyanins Isoflavones, sometimes called phytoestrogens, are found in soy, lentils, and legumes. Sara Novak, Discover Magazine, 16 Oct. 2024 Flaxseeds contain phytoestrogens, which are similar to estrogen.5 The data on the benefits of flaxseed for menopause symptoms is inconsistent. Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 13 Aug. 2024 The internet is fraught with claims that these phytoestrogens cause breasts to grow or increase the risk of breast cancer. Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 21 Apr. 2024 Soy foods are often recommended for postmenopausal women because of the phytoestrogens (known as soy isoflavones), which may provide an estrogen-like effect in the body as estrogen levels decrease. Sarah Anzlovar, Ms, Rd, Verywell Health, 18 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for phytoestrogen 

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Phytoöstrogen, from phyto- phyto- + Östrogen estrogen

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phytoestrogen was in 1964

Dictionary Entries Near phytoestrogen

Cite this Entry

“Phytoestrogen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phytoestrogen. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

phytoestrogen

noun
phy·​to·​es·​tro·​gen -ˈes-trə-jən How to pronounce phytoestrogen (audio)
variants or chiefly British phyto-oestrogen
: a chemical compound (as genistein) that occurs naturally in plants and has estrogenic properties
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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