fatty acid

noun

1
: any of numerous saturated aliphatic monocarboxylic acids CnH2n+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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This meal has 29 grams of protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon. Johna Burdeos, Health, 3 Feb. 2025 The creamy texture is formulated with 83% organic ingredients, powered by a blend of botanic oils and fatty acids that are lightweight and nourishing. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 31 Jan. 2025 It’s made up of cholesterol, triglycerides, and fatty acids. Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 29 Jan. 2025 Nutrient-rich diets during pregnancy, particularly those high in omega-3 fatty acids, bolster neural development. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 15 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for fatty acid 

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fatty acid was in 1838

Dictionary Entries Near fatty acid

Cite this Entry

“Fatty acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fatty%20acid. Accessed 14 Feb. 2025.

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 CnH2n+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

More from Merriam-Webster on fatty acid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!