linolenic acid

noun

lin·​o·​le·​nic acid ˌli-nə-ˈlē-nik- How to pronounce linolenic acid (audio)
-ˈlā-
: a liquid unsaturated fatty acid C18H30O2 found especially in drying oils (such as linseed oil) and essential for the nutrition of some animals

Examples of linolenic acid 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.
Walnut Oil Walnut oil provides alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid that supports heart health. — Lindsey Desoto, Health, 4 Mar. 2026 Chia, hemp and flaxseed oil capsules provide a third type of omega-3 called alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA, an antioxidant with the important job of turning food into energy. — Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 18 June 2026 Nuts and Seeds Besides fatty fish, several types of nuts and seeds are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, although of a different type, called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). — Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 14 Apr. 2026 The powerhouse seed is also a good source of antioxidants, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids (specifically alpha-linolenic acid), lignans, magnesium, and vitamin B1. — Christina Chaey, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for linolenic acid

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, irregular from linoleic

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of linolenic acid was in 1887

Rhymes for linolenic acid

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Browse Nearby Words

linolein
linolenic acid
linolenin
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Linolenic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/linolenic%20acid. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

linolenic acid

noun
lin·​ole·​nic acid -ˌlē-nik-, -ˌlā- How to pronounce linolenic acid (audio)
: a liquid unsaturated fatty acid C18H30O2 found especially in drying oils (as linseed oil) and essential for the nutrition of some animals

More from Merriam-Webster on linolenic acid

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about linolenic acid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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