omega-3

adjective

ome·​ga-3 ō-ˈmā-gə-ˈthrē How to pronounce omega-3 (audio)
-ˈmē-,
-ˈme- How to pronounce omega-3 (audio)
: 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
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Incorporating this omega-3 source into a diet may also help with overall eye health and vision function, along with its anti-inflammatory properties, Salvatore said. Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 28 Mar. 2025 Two tablespoons of hemp seeds have just as much protein as two egg whites—along with all nine essential amino acids (a rarity), omega-3, and omega-6. Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 27 Mar. 2025 Flaxseed is packed with omega-3 fatty acids that deeply nourish. Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 26 Mar. 2025 Much of the concern about seed oils centers on the fact that due to their high linoleic acid content, seed oils have much more omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids, whereas a balanced ratio of the two in the body is best for health. Kristen Rogers, CNN, 25 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for omega-3

Word History

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of omega-3 was in 1967

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Cite this Entry

“Omega-3.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/omega-3. Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

omega-3

adjective
ome·​ga-3 -ˈthrē How to pronounce omega-3 (audio)
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
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