Coined from “vital” + “amine,” the term “vitamin” originally suggested compounds with amino groups. However, since most vitamins lack amino groups, the letter ‘e’ was dropped, and the term is used to describe essential organic compounds for health and growth.
Explain the origin of the term “vitamin” and the significance of dropping the letter ‘e’ in its modern usage.
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The term “vitamin” originated from the words “vital” and “amine,” reflecting their crucial roles in metabolic processes. However, not all vitamins are amines, leading to the dropping of the letter ‘e’ for accuracy. Biochemist Casimir Funk coined the term in 1912. The significance lies in embracing a broader understanding of these essential organic compounds, including non-amine substances, like vitamin C. The modification better aligns with the diverse chemical nature of vitamins and emphasizes their vital roles in health, growth, and metabolism, beyond the initially perceived association with amines.