Definition

Noun: A type of connective tissue in the body composed primarily of fat-storing cells called adipocytes. Its main functions are to store energy in the form of fat, provide cushioning for organs, and insulate the body against heat loss.

Usage

This term is used in biological, medical, and anatomical contexts to describe the body's fat deposits. It is a formal, scientific term.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Excess calorie intake is stored in adipose tissue.
  • The surgeon carefully dissected through the layer of adipose tissue to reach the muscle.
  • Mammals rely on their adipose tissue for insulation in cold climates.

Advanced Usage

• "White adipose tissue (WAT)": The most common type, specialized for energy storage and hormone production.
  • White adipose tissue is the body's main site for triglyceride storage.
• "Brown adipose tissue (BAT)": A type rich in mitochondria that generates body heat.
  • Brown adipose tissue is more active in infants and helps with non-shivering thermogenesis.

Variants and Related Words

• Adipocyte (n): A specialized cell that stores fat; the primary cell type in adipose tissue.
  • An adipocyte can expand significantly as it accumulates lipids.
• Adiposity (n): The state of being fat; fatness.
  • The study measured the patient's level of adiposity.

Synonyms

• Fatty tissue: A more general, less technical synonym.
• Body fat: A common, non-technical term.

Related Phrases

• "Subcutaneous adipose tissue": Adipose tissue located just beneath the skin.
  • Subcutaneous adipose tissue provides cushioning and shape to the body.
• "Visceral adipose tissue": Adipose tissue surrounding internal organs in the abdominal cavity.
  • High levels of visceral adipose tissue are associated with increased health risks.

Noun

1. a kind of body tissue containing stored fat that serves as a source of energy; it also cushions and insulates vital organs
   • fatty tissue protected them from the severe cold