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Vitamin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vitamin

[ˈvɪtəmɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

nutrition

A vitamin is an essential micronutrient that an organism needs in small quantities for the proper functioning of its metabolism.

Synonyms

micronutrient, nutrient, supplement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vitamin

Use 'vitamin' when referring specifically to organic compounds that are essential in small amounts for the body's normal growth and function. They are usually discussed in the context of diet, health, and nutrition.

  • Vitamin C helps to strengthen the immune system
  • She takes a multivitamin every morning
micronutrient

Use 'micronutrient' when referring to vitamins and minerals required by the body in small amounts for proper functioning and development. This term is often used in scientific or nutritional contexts.

  • Iron is a crucial micronutrient for preventing anemia
  • Micronutrient deficiencies can lead to serious health problems
nutrient

Use 'nutrient' in a general sense to refer to any substance that provides nourishment essential for growth and maintenance of life. This can include both macronutrients (like proteins, fats, carbohydrates) and micronutrients.

  • A balanced diet should include all essential nutrients
  • Plants absorb nutrients from the soil
supplement

Use 'supplement' when referring to products taken to add nutritional value to the diet, often in the form of pills, powders, or liquids. It may carry a neutral or slightly commercial connotation.

  • She takes a protein supplement after workouts
  • Many people use omega-3 supplements to improve heart health

Examples of usage

  • Vitamin C is important for boosting the immune system.
  • Many people take vitamin supplements to ensure they meet their daily requirements.
Context #2 | Noun

health

Vitamins are organic compounds that are necessary for normal growth and development.

Synonyms

essential nutrient, organic compound.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vitamin

Use 'vitamin' when referring to a specific type of nutrient that is crucial for bodily functions and is often consumed through diet or supplements.

  • Vitamin C boosts the immune system and helps with the absorption of iron.
  • She takes a daily vitamin to ensure she's getting enough essential nutrients.
organic compound

Use 'organic compound' when discussing chemical compounds that contain carbon and are typically found in living organisms. This term is more scientific and broad compared to just 'vitamin'.

  • Glucose is an organic compound that is a key source of energy for cells.
  • Organic compounds, including vitamins, are essential for life.
essential nutrient

Use 'essential nutrient' when talking about nutrients that are necessary for the body and must be obtained from the diet because the body cannot synthesize them on its own.

  • Proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are essential nutrients for maintaining energy and growth.
  • Without these essential nutrients, the body cannot function properly.

Examples of usage

  • Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables ensures you get a good mix of vitamins.
  • Vitamin D is important for bone health.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Vitamins have been featured in popular songs, such as 'Vitamin C' by Can, illustrating the fruit's popularity.
  • In the animated series 'The Magic School Bus', vitamins are explained as essential for kids' growth, showing their importance in education.
  • The superhero 'Captain Vitamin' emerged in comics to promote health awareness, emphasizing the superhero-like qualities of vitamins.

Science

  • There are 13 essential vitamins needed for the body, including vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, each playing unique roles.
  • Vitamins can be classified as water-soluble or fat-soluble, determining how they are absorbed and stored in the body.
  • Deficiencies in specific vitamins can lead to serious health problems, like scurvy from lack of vitamin C or rickets from lack of vitamin D.

Health

  • Vitamins play crucial roles in maintaining health, supporting immune function, and promoting mental well-being.
  • Dietary sources of vitamins range from fruits and vegetables to meats and dairy, ensuring a balanced diet is vital.
  • The multivitamin supplement market has grown immensely, reflecting people's interest in enhancing their nutrient intake.

History

  • In the early 20th century, researchers found that diets lacking certain foods could lead to deficiency diseases, boosting interest in vitamins.
  • The discovery of specific vitamins notably advanced public health, leading to initiatives like fortifying foods with necessary nutrients.
  • World War II landmarks the promotion of vitamin-rich foods to improve soldiers' health, highlighting the importance of nutrition in times of crisis.

Origin of 'vitamin'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'vitamin' comes from 'vital' meaning necessary for life and 'amine', because early vitamins were thought to be amines.
  • The term was first coined in 1912 by Polish biochemist Casimir Funk, who discovered the importance of certain food compounds.
  • Originally, 'vitamine' included the 'e' at the end, which was dropped when scientists discovered not all vitamins are amines.

The word 'vitamin' was coined by Polish biochemist Casimir Funk in 1912. He combined 'vita' (meaning life) with 'amine' as he believed at the time that all vitamins were amines. Later research proved this to be incorrect, but the name stuck. Vitamins were discovered through the study of various deficiency diseases, such as scurvy and beriberi, and have since become an essential part of nutrition and health science.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,292 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.