lycopene

noun

ly·​co·​pene ˈlī-kə-ˌpēn How to pronounce lycopene (audio)
: a carotenoid pigment C40H56 that is the red coloring matter of the tomato

Examples of lycopene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tomatoes Tomatoes are a nutrient-dense fruit that provides vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant proven to reduce inflammation. — Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 14 Aug. 2026 Canned tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that becomes more bioavailable—meaning easier for the body to absorb—after the cell walls break down during heating. — Bridget Shirvell, Martha Stewart, 7 Aug. 2026 Nutrition of Papaya Papaya is packed with vitamins A and C, potassium, beta-carotene, and lycopene. — Sherri Gordon, Health, 2 Aug. 2026 Tomato Basil Soup Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene and flavonoids, along with vitamins and minerals linked to heart health and healthy blood sugar. — Mark Gurarie, HEALTH, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for lycopene

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary lycop- (from New Latin Lycopersicon, genus of herbs) + -ene

First Known Use

circa 1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lycopene was circa 1929

Rhymes for lycopene

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Browse Nearby Words

Lycodidae
lycopene
Lycoperdaceae
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Cite this Entry

“Lycopene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lycopene. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

lycopene

noun
ly·​co·​pene ˈlī-kə-ˌpēn How to pronounce lycopene (audio)
: a red pigment C40H56 isomeric with carotene that occurs in many ripe fruits (as the tomato)

More from Merriam-Webster on lycopene

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lycopene

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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