Any of a large number of esters of fatty acids, commonly formed by the reaction of a fatty acid with glycerol (see glyceride). They are soluble in alcohol but not in water. Lipids are the chief constituents of plant and animal waxes, fats, and oils.
Phospholipids are lipids that also contain a phosphate group, usually linked to an organic base; they are major components of biological cell membranes.
Any oily organic compound insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents; essential structural component of living cells (along with proteins and carbohydrates); SYN. lipide, lipoid.