micronutrient

[ mahy-kroh-noo-tree-uhnt, -nyoo- ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. an essential nutrient, as a trace mineral or vitamin, that is required by an organism in minute amounts.

micronutrient

/ ˌmaɪkrəʊˈnjuːtrɪənt /

noun

1. any substance, such as a vitamin or trace element, essential for healthy growth and development but required only in minute amounts

Word History and Origins

Origin of micronutrient¹

First recorded in 1935–40; micro- + nutrient

Example Sentences

Ziska says how micronutrient levels within crops will be impacted by climate change is “an area that needs a lot more work and a deeper dive.”

From Eater

The authors project that this could trigger increased spikes in food prices, deepening food insecurity and micronutrient deficiencies.

From Eater

Cats are called “obligate carnivores,” meaning they depend on the micronutrients found in meat.

From Washington Post

The vessel will feed the seaweed through tubes from an onboard tank of micronutrients.

From MIT Technology Review

When we consider the nutritional profile of a food, it’s often broken up into macro and micronutrients.

From Popular-Science