Definition

Referring to substances or compounds that do not contain heme, which is a component of hemoglobin found in blood.

Example

Nonheme iron is found in plant-based foods and is not as easily absorbed by the body as heme iron from animal sources.

Conversation

I read that some foods are high in nonheme iron.

Really? I didn’t know there were different types of iron.

Yeah, nonheme iron is mainly found in plant sources.

That's interesting! I should probably include more of those in my diet.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonheme → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "heme" (from Greek "haima", meaning blood). The term refers to substances that do not contain heme, which is a component of hemoglobin found in blood.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning not, and 'heme' relating to blood — so nonheme refers to something that is not related to blood.

Visually Confused Words