free radical
noun
: an especially reactive atom or group of atoms that has one or more unpaired electrons
especially
: one that is produced in the body by natural biological processes or introduced from an outside source (such as tobacco smoke, toxins, or pollutants) and that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA by altering their chemical structure
Examples of free radical in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
These sprouts help the body produce more antioxidants, protecting cells from free radical damage.
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Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 28 June 2024
That process converts the particles into something known as free radicals, which can damage cells and tissues.
—Janet Loehrke, USA TODAY, 21 June 2024
Initially, bioluminescence may have evolved to reduce free radicals– chemically unstable atoms that can damage cells.
—Discover Magazine, 19 June 2024
Some are high in anti-inflammatory properties while others are rich in free radicals and antioxidants.
—Ramsey Qubein, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 July 2023
See all Example Sentences for free radical 
Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 28 June 2024
That process converts the particles into something known as free radicals, which can damage cells and tissues.
—Janet Loehrke, USA TODAY, 21 June 2024
Initially, bioluminescence may have evolved to reduce free radicals– chemically unstable atoms that can damage cells.
—Discover Magazine, 19 June 2024
Some are high in anti-inflammatory properties while others are rich in free radicals and antioxidants.
—Ramsey Qubein, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 July 2023
See all Example Sentences for free radical
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'free radical.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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“Free radical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20radical. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.
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