fatty liver

noun

: an abnormal condition of the liver that is marked by excess lipid accumulation in the hepatocytes and is typically associated with obesity, malnutrition, rapid weight loss, excessive alcohol consumption, hyperlipidemia, toxins, or diabetes
also : a liver affected with fatty liver

Examples of fatty liver 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.
Your May Have a Lower Risk of Fatty Liver High cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) is a risk factor for fatty liver disease. Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 24 June 2025 This condition is formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 24 May 2025 Research shows they may be linked to a number of health issues like childhood obesity, diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disease and depression in women. Adrianna Rodriguez, USA Today, 22 May 2025 Symptoms of fatty liver are usually absent but, if present, include mild stomach discomfort or fatigue.17 9. Jonathan Purtell, Verywell Health, 13 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for fatty liver

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fatty liver was circa 1839

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Cite this Entry

“Fatty liver.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fatty%20liver. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

fatty liver

noun
1
: an abnormal condition of the liver that is marked by excess accumulation of lipids (such as triglycerides) in the hepatocytes and is typically associated with obesity, malnutrition, rapid weight loss, excessive alcohol consumption, high levels of fat in the blood, diabetes, or toxins

Note: Fatty liver is often asymptomatic and benign but may progress to fibrosis and liver failure.

2
: a liver affected with fatty liver

More from Merriam-Webster on fatty liver

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