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

May Support Brain Function Similar to your heart, your brain relies on omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12 to function at its best. —Devineé Lingo, M.s., Health, 16 July 2024

The omega-3 fatty acids in crabmeat are great for heart and brain health, and the selenium helps to regulate thyroid gland function and protects against infection. —Bethany Thayer, Detroit Free Press, 13 July 2024

Think of this supplement as an amalgamation of essential nutrients: Vitamin D3 supports immune function; calcium—with D3, K2, magnesium, and boron—maintains bone health; magnesium and D3 aid muscle function; omega-3 DHA and vitamin B12 support brain health. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 10 July 2024

Now, a new study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, has shown that eating a Mediterranean-style diet with regular supplements of omega-3 fatty acids may significantly improve the skin's appearance for patients who suffer from acne. —David Faris, Newsweek, 10 July 2024

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