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.
The scans also spot fatty liver, gallstones and kidney cysts, brain conditions such as stroke or excess fluid, and musculoskeletal issues like disc disease or joint problems. — Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 21 Sep. 2026 According to the National Institutes of Health, between 34% and 70% of PCOS patients develop fatty liver disease. — Abigail Van Buren, Mercury News, 3 Sep. 2026 Beyond being used to treat diabetes and obesity, it is approved to lower cardiovascular risk, slow kidney decline and treat fatty liver disease, with trial data piling up for sleep apnea and osteoarthritis. — Jacek Krywko, Scientific American, 2 Sep. 2026 Rapid weight loss can cause hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease, which can be fatal. — Lauren Paige Richeson, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026 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 3 Oct. 2026.

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

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