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.
Cellulite is formed by a collection of fat cells around the fibrous cords that attach skin to muscle.Jeannie Ralston

Examples of fat cell 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.
Kybella is an injectable treatment that uses deoxycholic acid to dissolve fat cells permanently. Carlos Wolf, Miami Herald, 25 Sep. 2025 According to one study, the fat cells beneath your top layer of skin are sensitive to the sun's rays and shrink when exposed to the sun.13 Researchers speculate that this could be the reason why people tend to gain weight during the winter months or in northern areas where there is little sunlight. Sherri Gordon, Health, 12 Sep. 2025 In order to generate heat, the brown fat cells need to draw on energy reserves stored in other fat cells. Diana Hubbell, Popular Science, 10 Sep. 2025 Liposuction surgically removes fat cells, while cryolipolysis freezes and destroys them. Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 29 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fat cell

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fat cell was in 1840

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Cite this Entry

“Fat cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fat%20cell. Accessed 4 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

fat cell

noun
: any of the fat-containing cells that make up the connective tissue in which bodily fat is stored

Medical 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

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