vitamin C

noun

: a water-soluble vitamin C6H8O6 found in plants and especially in fruits and leafy vegetables or made synthetically and used in the prevention and treatment of scurvy and as an antioxidant for foods

called also ascorbic acid

Examples of vitamin C in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Enriched with the brand’s proprietary Melasyl, which has been clinically shown to reduce dark spots and dark patches, the formula also has vitamin C and niacinamide. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 27 Oct. 2026 Some also have other antiaging superstars like retinol, brightening ingredients like vitamin C, antioxidants like vitamin E, or niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) to strengthen the skin barrier. — Christa Joanna Lee, Glamour, 23 Oct. 2026 Antioxidant-rich ascorbyl phosphate, a vitamin C derivative, and rosehip oil round out the formula, helping brighten tone and smooth texture. — Madison San Miguel, Allure, 23 Oct. 2026 But there are several vegetables that are high in vitamin C too, including broccoli, red and green peppers, spinach, and tomatoes. — Sarah Bradley, HEALTH, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for vitamin C

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1920, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vitamin C was circa 1920

Rhymes for vitamin C

See All Rhymes for vitamin C

Browse Nearby Words

vitamin B6
vitamin C
vitamin D
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vitamin C.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vitamin%20C. Accessed 29 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

vitamin C

noun
: a vitamin that is present especially in citrus fruits, tomatoes, and green vegetables and is needed by the body to prevent scurvy

called also ascorbic acid

Medical Definition

vitamin C

noun
: a water-soluble vitamin C6H8O6 found in plants and especially in fruits and leafy vegetables or made synthetically and used in the prevention and treatment of scurvy and as an antioxidant for foods

called also ascorbic acid

More from Merriam-Webster on vitamin C

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about vitamin C

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