omega-3

adjective

ome·​ga-3 ō-ˈmā-gə-ˈthrē 

-ˈmē-,

-ˈme- 

: being or composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids that have the final double bond in the hydrocarbon chain between the third and fourth carbon atoms from the end of the molecule opposite that of the carboxyl group and that are found especially in fish, fish oils, green leafy vegetables, and some nuts and vegetable oils compare omega-6

omega-3 noun

Examples of omega-3 in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Nutrient-rich diets during pregnancy, particularly those high in omega-3 fatty acids, bolster neural development. —Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 15 Jan. 2025

Always discuss the potential risks and side effects of omega-3 supplements before starting them. —Allison Herries, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2025

Chia seeds have a high fiber content, sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E, flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, and sesame seeds are high in iron.30313233 Vegan Meal Ideas Many vegan-friendly foods are versatile and can be combined to create delicious and nutritionally balanced dishes. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 14 Jan. 2025

Chia seeds have gained recognition as a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids. —Annie Peterson, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

omega-3

adjective

ome·​ga-3 -ˈthrē 

variants also Omega-3

: being or composed of polyunsaturated fats that have the first double bond in the hydrocarbon chain occurring between the third and fourth carbon atoms from the end of the molecule most distant from the carboxylic acid group and that are found especially in fish, fish oils, green leafy vegetables, and some nuts and seeds

The two main omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil … appear to reduce the risk of dying from sudden cardiac arrest by about 30 percent.

—Nutrition Action Health Letter

compare omega-6

omega-3 noun

also Omega-3

Some plants, such as linseed, naturally produce an omega-3 called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and one way to increase the amount of omega-3 in our diet is to eat these plants …

—Andy Coghlan, New Scientist