antioxidant

noun

an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌan-tē-ˈäk-sə-dənt 

ˌan-ˌtī-

: a substance (such as beta-carotene or vitamin C) that inhibits oxidation or reactions promoted by oxygen, peroxides, or free radicals

antioxidant adjective

Examples of antioxidant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Source of Antioxidants Jujube contains antioxidant compounds like phenolic acids and flavonols. —Johna Burdeos, Health, 30 Oct. 2024

Gunn says an oil like squalane, which is an ingredient that provides hydration and antioxidant benefits without clogging pores, can be used strategically on drier areas or as an overnight treatment. —Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 30 Oct. 2024

Polyphenols, including anthocyanins and flavonoids, are the phytonutrients thought to provide most of the antioxidant content of apples. —Brittany Lubeck, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024

In the morning, Dr. Suarez recommends an antioxidant serum and face sunscreen after using the mask. —Claire Sullivan, WWD, 24 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

antioxidant

noun

an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌant-ē-ˈäk-səd-ənt 

ˌan-ˌtī-

: a substance that opposes oxidation or prevents or makes difficult reactions made easier by oxygen

Medical Definition

antioxidant

noun

an·​ti·​ox·​i·​dant ˌant-ē-ˈäk-səd-ənt, ˌan-ˌtī- 

: any of various substances (as beta-carotene, vitamin C, and alpha-tocopherol) that inhibit oxidation or reactions promoted by oxygen and peroxides and that include many held to protect the living body from the deleterious effects of free radicals

antioxidant adjective