lycopene

noun

ly·​co·​pene ˈlī-kə-ˌpēn How to pronounce lycopene (audio)
: a carotenoid pigment C40H56 that is the red coloring matter of the tomato

Examples of lycopene 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.
However, papaya, besides papain, is a good source of vitamin C and lycopene—two nutrients that may aid immune health and may be a good addition to your diet.171819 5. Sarah Anzlovar, Ms, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025 How to Use It Papaya contains many antioxidants, including vitamin C, lycopene, and quercetin. Sarah Anzlovar, Ms, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025 Research shows that following a diet high in lycopene is an effective way to lower heart disease risk.26 11. Jillian Kubala, Health, 24 Feb. 2025 Other nutrients: Some multivitamins include additional ingredients like antioxidants (e.g., lutein or lycopene), omega-3 fatty acids, or herbal extracts. Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 22 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lycopene

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary lycop- (from New Latin Lycopersicon, genus of herbs) + -ene

First Known Use

circa 1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lycopene was circa 1929

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lycopene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lycopene. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

lycopene

noun
ly·​co·​pene ˈlī-kə-ˌpēn How to pronounce lycopene (audio)
: a red pigment C40H56 isomeric with carotene that occurs in many ripe fruits (as the tomato)

More from Merriam-Webster on lycopene

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!