fat-soluble

American

[fat-sol-yuh-buhl] / ˈfætˌsɒl yə bəl /

adjective

Chemistry.

soluble in oils or fats.

fat-soluble British

adjective

soluble in nonpolar substances, such as ether, chloroform, and oils. Fat-soluble compounds are often insoluble in water

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of fat-soluble

First recorded in 1920–25

Compare meaning

How does fat-soluble compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

fat-soluble vs. water-soluble

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

THC is fat-soluble, so filling your belly can hasten your high and also help offset any negative side effects.

From Washington Post

It may also reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as E, D and K as well as beta carotene.

From Seattle Times

Hens and their eggs will absorb these fat-soluble toxins and concentrate the chemicals in elevated amounts, making eggs hazardous for the people who eat them.

From Scientific American

Some are naturally an emulsion, or a mix of water-soluble and fat-soluble components, such as dairy.

From Seattle Times

Many dairy foods, as well as some vegetables, contain this fat-soluble vitamin.

From BBC

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023