polyphenol

noun

poly·​phe·​nol ˌpä-lē-ˈfē-ˌnōl 

-fi-ˈnōl

: a polyhydroxy phenol

especially : an antioxidant phytochemical

polyphenolic

ˌpä-lē-fi-ˈnō-lik  -ˈnä- 

adjective

Examples of polyphenol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These parts of plants are naturally high in polyphenols. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 31 Mar. 2026

Research suggests that regularly including polyphenol-rich foods in your diet may help lower markers of inflammation, especially when paired with a nutrient-rich eating pattern. —Lauren Manaker, SELF, 26 Mar. 2026

These herbs are similar nutritionally to other leafy vegetables, brimming with vitamins A, C and K, and plant compounds called polyphenols that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. —Ellie Krieger, Washington Post, 24 Mar. 2026

Balsamic vinegar contains polyphenols and adds depth to roasted vegetables, salads and proteins. —Allison Palmer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

polyphenol

noun

poly·​phe·​nol ˌpäl-i-ˈfē-ˌnōl, -ˌnȯl, -fi-ˈ 

: a polyhydroxy phenol

especially : an antioxidant phytochemical (as chlorogenic acid) that tends to prevent or neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals

polyphenolic

-fi-ˈnō-lik  -ˈnäl-ik 

adjective