: a chemical compound (such as beta-carotene) occurring naturally in plants
Examples of phytochemical in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
What’s more, peeling the vegetable with bare hands can leave palms and fingernails a ghoulish brown for days, thanks to a phytochemical called cynarin that stains the skin.—Benjamin Kemper, Saveur, 17 Apr. 2024 In host switching, new adaptations are required to adapt to plants in novel lineages with phytochemical defenses the insect has never before encountered in its evolutionary history.—Emily Underwood, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 Sep. 2023
Noun
Researchers believe the high amounts of phytochemicals in almonds provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can protect against certain cancers.—Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 1 Aug. 2024 Antioxidants: These are vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals (natural plant chemicals) in foods that help neutralize free radicals, which occur as the result of oxidation caused by stressors like exposure to sunlight or pollution, stress, alcohol, or cigarette smoking.—Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for phytochemical
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'phytochemical.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Adjective
phyto- + chemical entry 1, probably after New Latin phytochemicus or German phytochemisch
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