# folic

/ˈfɑɫɪk/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/folic
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

relating to the vitamin B9 that helps your body make new cells. It is especially important for pregnant women to stay healthy.

For teachers: relating to folic acid or folate, a B-complex vitamin essential for DNA synthesis and cell division. Often used in medical or nutritional contexts to describe the presence or deficiency of this nutrient.

## Examples

- The doctor recommended a folic acid supplement for the pregnancy.
- A folic acid deficiency can lead to serious health issues, including anemia and developmental problems in unborn babies.
- Public health initiatives often involve the fortification of staple foods with folic acid to prevent neural tube defects in the general population, particularly among women of childbearing age.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.