riboflavin: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
lowformal, technical
Quick answer
What does “riboflavin” mean?
A vitamin of the B complex, essential for metabolic processes and energy production.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A vitamin of the B complex, essential for metabolic processes and energy production.
Also known as vitamin B2, it plays a key role in cell function, growth, and the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage between British and American English.
Connotations
Neutral; associated with science, health, and nutrition.
Frequency
Equally low in both varieties, typically found in technical or educational materials.
Grammar
How to Use “riboflavin” in a Sentence
riboflavin in [food][have] a riboflavin deficiency[take] riboflavin supplementsVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in the health supplement industry, food labeling, and pharmaceutical contexts.
Academic
Common in biochemistry, nutrition research, and medical studies.
Everyday
Rare; may appear in health discussions or on nutritional information labels.
Technical
Frequent in scientific literature, clinical guidelines, and metabolic studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “riboflavin”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “riboflavin”
- Mispronunciation: stressing the first syllable as 'RYE-bo-flavin' instead of the standard stress pattern.
- Confusion with other B vitamins like thiamine or niacin.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for energy production, metabolism, and maintaining healthy skin and eyes.
Good sources include dairy products, eggs, lean meats, almonds, and green leafy vegetables like spinach.
Deficiency can lead to sore throat, redness and swelling of the lining of the mouth and throat, cracks or sores on the lips, and inflammation of the tongue.
Yes, riboflavin supplements are generally safe when taken as directed, as it is water-soluble and excess is excreted in urine, but consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
A vitamin of the B complex, essential for metabolic processes and energy production.
Riboflavin is usually formal, technical in register.
Riboflavin: in British English it is pronounced /ˌraɪ.bəʊˈfleɪ.vɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌraɪ.boʊˈfleɪ.vɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'ribbon of flavor' – riboflavin adds energy to your body's processes.
Conceptual Metaphor
Often conceptualized as a 'spark plug' for metabolic energy production.
Practice
Quiz
What is another name for riboflavin?