How Do You Spell VITAMINE?

Pronunciation: [vˈɪtɐmˌiːn] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "vitamine" is an outdated form of the word "vitamin". It was commonly used in the early 1900s and came from the word "vital amine", as early scientists believed that all vitamins were amines (a type of organic compound). However, as research developed, it was discovered that not all vitamins are amines, and so the spelling was changed to the modern form of "vitamin". In IPA phonetic transcription, the pronunciation of "vɪtəmɪn" reflects this modern spelling.

VITAMINE Meaning and Definition

  1. Vitamine, also commonly referred to as a vitamin, is a vital organic compound required in small amounts to maintain normal bodily functions and prevent deficiency diseases. They are essential nutrients typically obtained through diet, as the human body usually cannot synthesize sufficient amounts of these compounds.

    Vitamins play a crucial role as coenzymes or activators of enzymes involved in metabolic reactions. They assist in energy production, growth, development, and regulation of various physiological processes. Each vitamin performs specific functions within the body. Some vitamins are water-soluble, such as vitamin C and the eight B-complex vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, B6, B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and folic acid. These vitamins are not stored in significant amounts, and excessive intake is excreted in urine. Conversely, vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble vitamins, stored in the body's fatty tissues for a longer duration.

    Vitamin deficiency can result in various health problems and diseases. For instance, lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy, a disease characterized by bleeding gums, anemia, and fatigue. Vitamin D deficiency can result in weak bones and susceptibility to fractures due to decreased calcium absorption. Conversely, excessive vitamin intake can also have adverse effects, leading to toxicity.

    In summary, vitamins are essential organic micronutrients required for normal bodily functions. Adequate consumption of a balanced diet rich in vitamins is essential for maintaining optimal health and preventing deficiency diseases.

  2. One of a group of substances of unknown composition, present in very small amount in natural foodstuffs, which are essential to normal metabolism and the lack of which in the dietary causes beriberi and other deficiency diseases.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Etymology of VITAMINE

The word vitamine was first coined in 1912 by Polish biochemist Casimir Funk. It derives from the Latin word vita, meaning life, and the word amine, which was used to denote a class of organic compounds at the time. Funk used this name to describe a group of organic compounds that were essential for maintaining life and preventing certain diseases. Later, it was discovered that not all vitamins were actually amines, but the name vitamine already gained popularity and remained in use. Eventually, the final e was dropped, and the spelling became vitamin.

Similar spelling words for VITAMINE

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