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

Pairing Salmon with Antioxidants to Boost Omega-3s Interestingly, there’s one other type of nutrient in salmon that may help preserve those delicate fatty acids during cooking—antioxidants. —Eleesha Lockett, Verywell Health, 20 Feb. 2026

That nourishment comes courtesy of fatty acid–rich rice bran extract and allantoin, the latter of which also works to repair the skin barrier to stave off sensitivity. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 19 Feb. 2026

Fish is rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 19 Feb. 2026

This superstar fish is full of omega-3 fatty acids, which support the structure and function of brain cells and enhance the communication between neurons, explains neurologist Shae Datta, MD, clinical assistant professor in the department of neurology at NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine. —Ashley Oerman, SELF, 19 Feb. 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