linoleic acid

noun

lin·​o·​le·​ic acid ˌli-nə-ˈlē-ik-  -ˈlā- 

: a liquid unsaturated fatty acid C₁₈H₃₂O₂ found especially in semidrying oils (such as corn oil) and essential for the nutrition of some animals

Examples of linoleic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Essential Fatty Acids Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and linoleic acid, are commonly taken for heart health but may also help with PMS symptoms. —Patricia Weiser, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 18 Feb. 2025

Pumpkin seeds also provide a significant amount of linoleic acid, with 26-80% levels. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 22 Jan. 2025

Research shows that incorporating omega-6 linoleic acid into the diet does not necessarily increase inflammation. —Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 20 Dec. 2024

Your body converts linoleic acid—the dominant omega-6 fatty acid in seed oils—into another omega-6 called arachidonic acid. —Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Greek linon flax + International Scientific Vocabulary oleic (acid)

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for linoleic acid

• antacid
• placid

Medical Definition

linoleic acid

noun

lin·​ole·​ic acid ˌlin-ə-ˌlē-ik-  -ˌlā- 

: a liquid unsaturated fatty acid C₁₈H₃₂O₂ found especially in semidrying oils (as peanut oil) and essential for the nutrition of some animals

called also linolic acid