unsaturated

adjective

un·​sat·​u·​rat·​ed ˌən-ˈsa-chə-ˌrā-təd 

: not saturated: such as

a

: capable of absorbing or dissolving more of something

an unsaturated solution

b

: able to form products by chemical addition

especially : containing double or triple bonds between carbon atoms

unsaturated fats

Examples of unsaturated in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Advertisement Among all the men and women, eating more whole grains, fruit, poultry, nuts, soy and unsaturated fats were each associated with a lower risk of death. —Karen Kaplan, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2024

The oil packs unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, like polyphenols and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). —Brittany Loggins, Health, 26 May 2024

Fueled by exposure to air, light, and heat, unsaturated fats break down and release free radicals. —Ali Francis, Bon Appétit, 12 Mar. 2024

Most meals and snacks should have protein, fiber, unsaturated fats, and carbs. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 12 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1758, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

unsaturated

adjective

un·​sat·​u·​rat·​ed ˌən-ˈsach-ə-ˌrāt-əd 

ˈən-

: not saturated: as

a

: capable of absorbing or dissolving more of something

an unsaturated solution

b

: able to form products by combining chemically with other substances

especially : containing double or triple bonds between carbon atoms

an unsaturated fat

Medical Definition

unsaturated

adjective

un·​sat·​u·​rat·​ed -ˈsach-ə-ˌrāt-əd 

: not saturated: as

a

: capable of absorbing or dissolving more of something

an unsaturated solution

b

: able to form products by chemical addition

especially : having at least one double or triple bond between carbon atoms in a hydrocarbon chain

—used especially of an oil, fat, or fatty acid

unsaturated fatty acids

see also unsaturated fat compare saturated sense 2