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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The formula includes celery seed (rich in strengthening fatty acids) and lots of vitamins (B5, E, and F), while the sheer pink hue can double as a lovely blush polish after two coats. Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025 Flaxseeds are rich in fiber and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acid. Lindsey Desoto, Health, 16 Sep. 2025 Eating healthy, oily fish, which are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, is encouraged, while eggs, dairy and poultry are eaten in much smaller portions than in the traditional Western diet. Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 15 Sep. 2025 In addition, these seeds are high in fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 15 Sep. 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 21 Sep. 2025.

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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