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

Benefits: As an oily fish, sardines are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 29 May 2025

For the study, researchers divided the subjects into four groups, with one group receiving 2,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D3 (a common form of D supplement) and 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acid per day. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 27 May 2025

Plus, fatty acids and hydrating vitamin E keep hair healthy regardless of the water quality of your destination. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 27 May 2025

The gel 3-in-1 formula serves as a SPF, primer and anti-ager, courtesy of its 31 nutrients, including essential minerals, omega fatty acids and vitamins A, B3, B12 and D to nourish and hydrate. —Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for fatty acid

• antacid
• placid

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