Definition

A substance that the body can change into a vitamin through normal processes. For example, carotene can be converted into vitamin A.

Example

Carotene is a provitamin that helps the body produce vitamin A.

Conversation

I read that carrots contain a lot of provitamin A.

Really? I didn't know that! What does it do?

It gets converted into vitamin A in our bodies, which is great for our eyesight.

That's cool! I should start eating more carrots then.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Provitamin is formed from "pro-" (meaning before or in favor of) and "vitamin" (from Latin "vita" meaning life and "amin" referring to compounds containing nitrogen). The term refers to substances that are precursors to vitamins, meaning they are in favor of or necessary for life before being converted into active vitamins.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pro-' meaning 'before' and 'vitamin' relating to 'life' — so provitamin refers to something that comes before a vitamin, essential for life.

Visually Confused Words