Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Lymphocyte Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🦠
Add to dictionary

lymphocyte

[ˈlɪmfəˌsaɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological cell

Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that are essential for the immune system. They originate from stem cells in the bone marrow and are responsible for targeting specific pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. There are several types of lymphocytes, such as B cells, T cells, and natural killer cells, each playing a distinct role in the immune response. B cells produce antibodies, T cells help destroy infected cells and regulate the immune response, while natural killer cells attack tumor cells and infected cells directly.

Synonyms

immune cell, white blood cell.

Examples of usage

  • Lymphocytes are crucial for fighting off infections.
  • The doctor monitored the patient's lymphocyte levels.
  • An increase in lymphocytes can indicate an infection.
  • B lymphocytes produce antibodies against pathogens.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'lymphocyte'

The term 'lymphocyte' originates from the combination of two Greek words: 'lymphe,' meaning 'water' or 'clear fluid,' referring to lymph, the fluid in which these cells are found, and 'kytos,' meaning 'cell.' Lymphocytes were first described in the 19th century as a component of the immune system. They gained greater scientific attention in the early 20th century with the development of immunology as a discipline. The identification of lymphocytes and their roles in immune responses, particularly in the context of infections and diseases like HIV/AIDS, has spurred significant research and understanding of the immune system's complexities. Understanding lymphocytes and their functions has led to advancements in medicine, such as vaccinations and cancer therapies.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,715, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.