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
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.
By three weeks post-jab, new blood vessels are taking root and fat cells are moving into the matrix, Chnari says. Jolene Edgar, Allure, 9 Jan. 2025 Together, the findings suggest fat cells resist efforts to slim down. Christie Wilcox, science.org, 19 Nov. 2024 The genes that were less active are responsible for helping the fat cells function normally. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 Nov. 2024 Next, researchers found similar epigenetic changes to fat cells in mice. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fat cell 

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fat cell was in 1840

Dictionary Entries Near fat cell

Cite this Entry

“Fat cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fat%20cell. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

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

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