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

In practice, however, the process is often limited by the accumulation of volatile fatty acids, which decrease pH levels and suppress microbial activity. —Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 9 May 2026

Chia Seeds Chia seeds are a rich plant source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly ALA, a polyunsaturated fat the body cannot make. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 9 May 2026

Omega 3 fatty acids – Omega-3s help to strengthen the skin barrier, which is key for locking in moisture and preventing dryness and irritation. —Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 7 May 2026

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, are a structural component of brain cell membranes and low DHA is associated with faster cognitive decline. —Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 7 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for fatty acid

• antacid
• placid

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