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

This includes fresh fruit and vegetables, lean proteins, omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, walnuts, and Brazil nuts), and complex carbohydrates (kiwis, tangerines, apples, and others). —Mark Gurarie, Health, 22 Sep. 2025

Lower Risk of Cognitive Decline Foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish) and antioxidants may help promote cognitive health. —Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 22 Sep. 2025

Omega-3 fatty acids lower blood pressure and inflammation and improve HDL and LDL cholesterol. —Chrystle Fiedler, USA Today, 19 Sep. 2025

But common seed oils like sunflower, safflower, soybean, and canola oil are rich in omega-3 and polyunsaturated fats, including essential fatty acids our bodies can’t produce on their own, and that play an important role in our brain and overall health. —Amy Brightfield, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Sep. 2025

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