Definition

A type of chemical substance that serves the same vitamin function as another substance.

Example

Different vitamers can be found in various foods, providing similar health benefits.

Conversation

I was reading about vitamins, and I came across the term vitamer.

Oh really? What does it mean exactly?

It refers to substances that share the same vitamin function, like different forms of vitamin E.

That's interesting! I didn't know there were so many variations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vitamer is formed from "vita" (from Latin, meaning life) and "-mer" (from Greek "meros", meaning part). The word refers to a compound that is a part of a vitamin, essential for life.

Memory Tip

Think of 'vita' meaning life, and '-mer' meaning part — a vitamer is a part that contributes to life.

Visually Confused Words