omega-3

adjective

ome·​ga-3 ō-ˈmā-gə-ˈthrē 

-ˈmē-,

-ˈme- 

: 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

The seeds can add omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants, and their mild flavor pairs well with various whole-grain cereals.2 Ground flaxseeds mix quickly into cereal without altering the texture. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 16 Dec. 2024

Algae oil is made from marine algae, the original source of omega-3s that fish consume. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 13 Dec. 2024

Sardines can be a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as calcium and vitamin D, which can be helpful for bone health. —Sara Novak, Discover Magazine, 13 Dec. 2024

The next phase of research will focus on how much a healthier diet and higher consumption of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can promote faster recovery and lower inflammation. —Christopher O'Donnell, Orlando Sentinel, 10 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

omega-3

adjective

ome·​ga-3 -ˈthrē 

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