vitamin A

noun

1. a yellow, fat-soluble, solid terpene alcohol, C 20 H 30 O, obtained from carotene and occurring in green and yellow vegetables, egg yolk, etc.: essential to growth, the protection of epithelial tissue, and the prevention of night blindness.

vitamin A

noun

1. a fat-soluble yellow unsaturated alcohol occurring in green and yellow vegetables (esp carrots), butter, egg yolk, and fish-liver oil (esp halibut oil). It is essential for the prevention of night blindness and the protection of epithelial tissue. Formula: C 20 H 30 O Also calledvitamin A1retinol

vitamin A

1. A fat-soluble vitamin important for normal vision, tissue growth, and healthy skin. It is found in fish-liver oils, milk, green leafy vegetables, and red, orange, and yellow vegetables and fruits. A deficiency of vitamin A in humans causes poor vision at night and damage to the skin and mucous membranes. Also called retinol. Chemical formula: C 20 H 30 O.

Word History and Origins

Origin of vitamin A¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

The researchers found that foods rich in micronutrients — particularly vitamin A, zinc, and iron — will see decreased yields, especially threatening the staple food and nutrient supply of low- and middle-income countries.

From Eater

The authors highlight how mangos, an important source of vitamin A, are sensitive to shifts in rainfall and temperature.

From Eater

If you try to supplement people who have vitamin A deficiency by giving them vitamin A, you could cause toxicity unless you really limit that.

From Popular-Science

Also known as retinol, this ingredient is derived from vitamin A, and it’s considered a key component in any anti-aging strategy.

From Popular-Science

Generally speaking, the most important vitamins and minerals for dogs include vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, B-complex vitamins, calcium, folic acid, and phosphorus.

From Popular-Science