fat cell
noun
: a specialized cell of adipose tissue that stores excess energy in the form of triglyceride droplets : adipocyte
When food is not available and insulin levels fall, the fat cells release triglycerides back into the bloodstream, where they are transported to the liver and broken down into ketones, which can serve as fuel for muscle and the brain.—
Jeffrey S. Flier et al.
Jeffrey S. Flier et al.Cellulite is formed by a collection of fat cells around the fibrous cords that attach skin to muscle.—Jeannie Ralston
Jeannie RalstonExamples of fat cell in a Sentence
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Coolsculpting, otherwise known as cryolipolysis, freezes fat cells to destroy them.
—Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 6 July 2025
However, mice at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center have helped researchers identify a possible solution to these outcomes — a solution that resides within the fat cells of humans and mice alike.
—Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 2 July 2025
This is because fat cells make substances that may lead to gum inflammation and worsen gum health.12
Medication Side Effects
Dry mouth is a side effect of many medications, which can raise the risk of tartar buildup and gum disease.
—Mark Gurarie, Health, 29 May 2025
The condition is characterized by estrogen signaling fat cells to multiply and enlarge, predominantly affecting the arms and legs.
—Cheryl Robinson, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
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Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 6 July 2025
However, mice at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center have helped researchers identify a possible solution to these outcomes — a solution that resides within the fat cells of humans and mice alike.
—Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 2 July 2025
This is because fat cells make substances that may lead to gum inflammation and worsen gum health.12
Medication Side Effects
Dry mouth is a side effect of many medications, which can raise the risk of tartar buildup and gum disease.
—Mark Gurarie, Health, 29 May 2025
The condition is characterized by estrogen signaling fat cells to multiply and enlarge, predominantly affecting the arms and legs.
—Cheryl Robinson, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for fat cell
Cite this Entry
“Fat cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fat%20cell. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
fat cell
noun
: a specialized cell of adipose tissue that stores excess energy in the form of triglyceride droplets : adipocyte
When food is not available and insulin levels fall, the fat cells release triglycerides back into the bloodstream, where they are transported to the liver and broken down into ketones, which can serve as fuel for muscle and the brain.—Jeffrey S. Flier et al.
compare lipocyte
Jeffrey S. Flier et al.Love words? Need even more definitions?
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