omega-3

adjective

ome·​ga-3 ō-ˈmā-gə-ˈthrē 

-ˈmē-,

-ˈme- 

: being or composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids that have the final double bond in the hydrocarbon chain between the third and fourth carbon atoms from the end of the molecule opposite that of the carboxyl group and that are found especially in fish, fish oils, green leafy vegetables, and some nuts and vegetable oils compare omega-6

omega-3 noun

Examples of omega-3 in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Many believe that omega-3 fatty acids can help lower muscle damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation after exercise.7 More research is necessary to understand the benefits and optimal dosing. —Health, 12 May 2025

The dietician nutritionist said that omega-3–rich foods like fish, walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds are particularly valuable. —Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 May 2025

Supplements provide a concentrated dose of omega-3 fatty acids, namely docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which regulate inflammatory processes and protect cells from damage. —Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 2 May 2025

Experts urge women dealing with the annoying symptom to consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts or salmon, which can promote healthy skin. —Taylor Lane, Flow Space, 1 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

omega-3

adjective

ome·​ga-3 -ˈthrē 

variants also Omega-3

: being or composed of polyunsaturated fats that have the first double bond in the hydrocarbon chain occurring between the third and fourth carbon atoms from the end of the molecule most distant from the carboxylic acid group and that are found especially in fish, fish oils, green leafy vegetables, and some nuts and seeds

The two main omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil … appear to reduce the risk of dying from sudden cardiac arrest by about 30 percent.

—Nutrition Action Health Letter

compare omega-6

omega-3 noun

also Omega-3

Some plants, such as linseed, naturally produce an omega-3 called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and one way to increase the amount of omega-3 in our diet is to eat these plants …

—Andy Coghlan, New Scientist