unsaturated

adjective

un·​sat·​u·​rat·​ed ˌən-ˈsa-chə-ˌrā-təd 

: not saturated: such as

a

: capable of absorbing or dissolving more of something

an unsaturated solution

b

: able to form products by chemical addition

especially : having at least one double or triple bond between carbon atoms in a hydrocarbon chain

—used especially of an oil, fat, or fatty acid

unsaturated fatty acids

see also unsaturated fat compare saturated sense 2b

Examples of unsaturated in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Brassica vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and cabbage, could also promote this process, called trans-isomerization: when healthy unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) turn into unhealthy trans fatty acids (TFAs). —Hatty Willmoth, Newsweek, 24 Dec. 2024

Rich in unsaturated fatty acids, research shows that consuming safflower oil in moderation may improve cholesterol levels, control blood sugar, and provide anti-inflammatory support. —Cristina Mutchler, Health, 17 Dec. 2024

Room for Growth Europe’s venture capital market is still relatively unsaturated, meaning there is plenty of room for growth. —Kjartan Rist, Forbes, 24 Oct. 2024

The little legumes contain beneficial unsaturated fatty acids, and, of course, protein. —Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 30 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1756, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unsaturated

• unsaturated fat

Kids Definition

unsaturated

adjective

un·​sat·​u·​rat·​ed ˌən-ˈsach-ə-ˌrāt-əd 

ˈən-

: not saturated: as

a

: capable of absorbing or dissolving more of something

an unsaturated solution

b

: able to form products by combining chemically with other substances

especially : containing double or triple bonds between carbon atoms

an unsaturated fat

Medical Definition

unsaturated

adjective

un·​sat·​u·​rat·​ed -ˈsach-ə-ˌrāt-əd 

: not saturated: as

a

: capable of absorbing or dissolving more of something

an unsaturated solution

b

: able to form products by chemical addition

especially : having at least one double or triple bond between carbon atoms in a hydrocarbon chain

—used especially of an oil, fat, or fatty acid

unsaturated fatty acids

see also unsaturated fat compare saturated sense 2