free radical
noun
: an especially reactive atom or group of atoms that has one or more unpaired electrons
especially
: one that is produced in the body by natural biological processes or introduced from an outside source (such as tobacco smoke, toxins, or pollutants) and that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA by altering their chemical structure
Examples of free radical in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Specifically, there is neuroscience biohacking billed to enhance cognitive fitness, the reduction of inflammation markers and free radicals, as well as anti-inflammatory nutrition said to rejuvenate biological age.
—
Emily Burns, Footwear News, 24 May 2025
These free radicals can trigger oxidative stress and cellular damage in the body, which usually occurs in cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
—Bestreviews, Mercury News, 13 May 2025
Prickly pear and white sage extract in the formula additionally help protect skin from blue light and free radicals, respectively.
—Danielle Sinay, Glamour, 8 May 2025
Similarly, dark chocolate contains flavonoids that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
—Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 29 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for free radical
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.
Emily Burns, Footwear News, 24 May 2025
These free radicals can trigger oxidative stress and cellular damage in the body, which usually occurs in cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
—Bestreviews, Mercury News, 13 May 2025
Prickly pear and white sage extract in the formula additionally help protect skin from blue light and free radicals, respectively.
—Danielle Sinay, Glamour, 8 May 2025
Similarly, dark chocolate contains flavonoids that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
—Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 29 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for free radical
Cite this Entry
“Free radical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20radical. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share