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

Omega-3 fatty acid intake can also reduce your risk for dry eye syndrome. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 31 Oct. 2024

Emollients are lipids that act like grout between skin cells to prevent that water from evaporating; Dr. Kim points to ceramides and fatty acids. —Emily Orofino, Allure, 24 Oct. 2024

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are omega-3 fatty acids thought to increase muscle mass and strength. —Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 30 Oct. 2024

Different people respond differently sometimes to similar types of food, but foods that generally help with cognition include things like: olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids, so healthy fats. —Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 28 Oct. 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