What does the word "vitamin" mean?

The term "vitamin" is derived from the combination of "vita," which means "life," and "amine," which refers to a group of organic compounds that include amino acids. The meaning of the word reflects the essential role that vitamins play in maintaining health and supporting various bodily functions. Vitamins are organic compounds that organisms require in small amounts for a range of physiological functions including growth, metabolism, and overall health. They are termed "vital" because they are crucial for sustaining life, as the body often cannot produce them on its own in sufficient quantities. Therefore, the correct answer underscores the importance of vitamins as essential nutrients necessary for survival and proper functioning.