fatty acid

noun

1

: any of numerous saturated aliphatic monocarboxylic acids C_nH_2n+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

Shea butter is rich in fatty acids and vitamins and deeply moisturizes skin. —Victoria Moorhouse, Allure, 3 Dec. 2024

Lastly, the formula includes Maracuja oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin C, that contribute to firmer and smoother lips. —Taylor Lane, StyleCaster, 3 Dec. 2024

This glossy nourishing hair oil is rich in fatty acids including patauá oil, which helps restore hydration and add shine, and pequi oil, which protects the hair with antioxidants and smooths the cuticle. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 2 Dec. 2024

There’s also credible evidence that oleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid, can reduce the risk of heart disease, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). —Lisa Rapaport, EverydayHealth.com, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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 C_nH_2n+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