English Reference
noun · adjective · verb

fat

n. · adj. · v.
US /ˈfæt/ UK /fˈæt/ fat UK spelling fatting

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Science

    n.a natural oily substance found in the bodies of people and animals.

    n.a specialized animal tissue with high lipid content used for energy storage and insulation.

    Simple

    Whales have a thick layer of fat to keep them warm in cold water.

    In context

    The body stores excess calories as adipose tissue, commonly known as fat, to serve as a metabolic reserve during periods of food scarcity.

    lipidblubber
  2. 02 A2 Elementary Cooking

    n.oil, butter, or lard used in cooking.

    n.any of various solid or liquid ester compounds used as a medium for heat transfer or as a nutritional component in food preparation.

    Simple

    You should drain the excess fat from the pan before adding the vegetables.

    In context

    The chef recommended using animal fat rather than vegetable oil to achieve a more authentic flavour profile in the traditional pastry.

  3. 03 A1 Beginner Informal

    adj.having a lot of extra flesh on the body.

    adj.carrying a significant amount of excess body fat; often carries a derogatory or informal register depending on context.

    Simple

    The cat grew fat because it spent all day sleeping and eating.

    In context

    The doctor advised the patient that being clinically fat increased the risk of developing cardiovascular complications later in life.

    Pitfall
    He is a fat. He is fat.

    When describing a person's appearance, use 'fat' as an adjective, not as a noun.

  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    adj.thick, wide, or containing a lot of something.

    adj.notably thick in diameter or substantial in volume.

    Simple

    He used a fat permanent marker to write the sign.

    In context

    The executive received a fat bonus at the end of the fiscal year due to the company's record-breaking profits.

  5. 05 C1 Advanced InformalTechnical Music

    adj.having a full, deep, and powerful sound.

    adj.characterised by a rich, full-bodied timbre with prominent low-frequency resonance.

    Simple

    The producer wanted a fat bass sound for the new dance track.

    In context

    By layering multiple oscillators, the synthesist created a fat lead tone that cut through the dense arrangement of the rock anthem.

    thintinny
  6. 06 C2 Proficiency Technical Sport

    v.to hit the ground with your club before hitting the ball.

    v.to strike the turf behind the ball during a swing, resulting in a poor shot with reduced distance.

    Simple

    I fatted my iron shot and the ball only went half the distance.

    In context

    The amateur golfer tended to fat his wedge shots whenever he played from a soft, damp lie.

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated