fatty acid

noun

1
: any of numerous saturated aliphatic monocarboxylic acids CnH2n+1COOH (such as acetic acid) including many that occur naturally usually in the form of esters in fats, waxes, and essential oils
2
: any of the saturated or unsaturated monocarboxylic acids (such as palmitic acid) usually with an even number of carbon atoms that occur naturally in the form of glycerides in fats and fatty oils

Examples of fatty acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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This included an omega-3 fatty acid called alpha lipoic acid (ALA), which offers anti-inflammatory effects. Lauren O'Connor, Health, 31 Dec. 2025 As for nutrients to take into account, Viar also mentions magnesium for its ability to regulate the nervous system and induce rest; Omega-3 fatty acids for their key anti-inflammatory role; tryptophan, a precursor of serotonin; and plenty of B vitamins. Mónica Heras, Vogue, 30 Dec. 2025 Some formulas contain only basic vitamins and minerals, while others include herbs, probiotics, or omega-3 fatty acids (often sourced from fish oil). Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 29 Dec. 2025 Beyond its moisturizing benefits, this body oil has anti-aging benefits thanks to vitamins and essential fatty acids found in natural oils—in this case, sunflower seed oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil. Deanna Pai, Glamour, 27 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fatty acid

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fatty acid was in 1838

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Cite this Entry

“Fatty acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fatty%20acid. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

fatty acid

noun
: any of numerous acids that contain only carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen and occur naturally in fats and various oils

Medical Definition

fatty acid

noun
1
: any of numerous saturated aliphatic acids CnH2n+1COOH (as lauric acid) containing a single carboxyl group and including many that occur naturally usually in the form of esters in fats, waxes, and essential oils
2
: any of the saturated or unsaturated organic acids (as palmitic acid) that have a single carboxyl group and usually an even number of carbon atoms and that occur naturally in the form of glycerides in fats and fatty oils

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