fat cell

noun

: a specialized cell of adipose tissue that stores excess energy in the form of triglyceride droplets : adipocyte

When food is not available and insulin levels fall, the fat cells release triglycerides back into the bloodstream, where they are transported to the liver and broken down into ketones, which can serve as fuel for muscle and the brain.

—Jeffrey S. Flier et al.

Cellulite is formed by a collection of fat cells around the fibrous cords that attach skin to muscle.

—Jeannie Ralston

Examples of fat cell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Keto Supplements During the process of burning fat, fat cells are broken down into ketones, which are subsequently utilized for energy. —Robert James and, Miami Herald, 8 Apr. 2024

Garcinia cambogia is a plant extract that can boost your metabolism, help break down fat cells, and reduce your cravings. —Weight Loss Advisors, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024

Wilson says the same applies to other studies that suggest that wasabi can help with healthy weight management by impacting fat cell growth and formation. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 20 Mar. 2024

According to the scientists who’d developed it, each pink-tinged grain was seeded with muscle and fat cells from a cow, imparting a nutty, umami flavor. —Yasmin Tayag, The Atlantic, 8 Mar. 2024

When under stress, the fat cells break down, releasing a blitz of cannabinoids into the bloodstream. —Molly Sullivan, Sacramento Bee, 21 Feb. 2024

That’s in part because cannabinoids are stored in fat cells. —Molly Sullivan, Sacramento Bee, 21 Feb. 2024

Your liver and fat cells store vitamin D for future use, Pittas says. —Christie Aschwanden, Scientific American, 19 Dec. 2023

Picture a fat cell as a cup made of connective tissue. —Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 17 Aug. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

fat cell

noun

: any of the fat-containing cells that make up the connective tissue in which bodily fat is stored

Medical Definition

fat cell

noun

: a specialized cell of adipose tissue that stores excess energy in the form of triglyceride droplets : adipocyte

When food is not available and insulin levels fall, the fat cells release triglycerides back into the bloodstream, where they are transported to the liver and broken down into ketones, which can serve as fuel for muscle and the brain.

—Jeffrey S. Flier et al.

compare lipocyte