oleic acid

noun

ō-ˈlē-ik- How to pronounce oleic acid (audio) -ˈlā- How to pronounce oleic acid (audio)
: a monounsaturated fatty acid C18H34O2 obtained from natural fats and oils

Examples of oleic acid in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Plus, as mentioned earlier, oleic acid can combat inflammation. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 23 Apr. 2026 For example, oleic acid from cooking, squalene from human skin and bisphenol A from hard plastics can remain on surfaces for years if undisturbed. — Katelyn Richard, The Conversation, 9 Jan. 2026 Patatua fruit oil and tsubaki seed oil (also known as camellia seed oil) are both rich in oleic acid and antioxidants to enhance shine and strengthen weak hair, which reduces breakage. — Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 19 Jan. 2026 Unfortunately, that notorious fabric yellowing is often unavoidable due to the combination of oleic acid, squalene, and other organic compounds found in your skin oil and sweat. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for oleic acid

Word History

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of oleic acid was in 1819

Rhymes for oleic acid

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Browse Nearby Words

olei-
oleic acid
oleiculture
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Cite this Entry

“Oleic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oleic%20acid. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

oleic acid

noun
: a monounsaturated fatty acid C18H34O2 found in natural fats and oils

More from Merriam-Webster on oleic acid

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oleic acid

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