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

These bacteria ferment or break down prebiotics, releasing compounds called short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). —Jillian Kubala, Health, 3 July 2025

This antioxidant-rich body oil has vitamins C and E, fatty acids and omegas 3, 6 and 9 to brighten, hydrate and fight dullness. —Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025

The formulas punch well above their weight in price point, with products infused with skin-loving ingredients ranging from sea daffodil to fatty acids and quinoa seed oil. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 26 June 2025

There are some goodies in here, like hyaluronic acid and omega fatty acids. —Boutayna Chokrane, Wired News, 24 June 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