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Lytic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lytic

[ˈlɪtɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

medical term

Relating to or denoting a substance which is capable of destroying or weakening the structure of cells or tissues.

Synonyms

breakdown-inducing, cell-destroying, destructive, tissue-weakening.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lytic

This entry seems to be a duplicate from earlier

  • The lytic cycle of the virus involves the destruction of the host cell.
  • The lytic action of the enzyme breaks down cellular structures.
destructive

This word is more general and can be used in a wide range of situations to describe something that causes damage or destruction. It doesn't specifically refer to cells or biological contexts but can be used in such contexts as well.

  • The earthquake was incredibly destructive, leveling entire neighborhoods.
  • Some viruses have a particularly destructive effect on the immune system.
cell-destroying

This term is most appropriately used in a biological or medical context to describe agents or processes that cause the destruction of cells. It's straightforward and often found in more explanatory or educational materials.

  • Chemotherapy drugs are cell-destroying agents designed to target cancer cells.
  • The toxin was found to have cell-destroying properties.
tissue-weakening

This term is used in a medical or biological context to describe something that makes tissues weaker or more susceptible to damage. It implies a process that reduces the strength or integrity of tissue rather than completely destroying it.

  • The disease has a tissue-weakening effect that makes recovery difficult.
  • Chronic inflammation can be tissue-weakening, leading to long-term damage.
breakdown-inducing

This phrase is best used when talking about something that causes a breakdown or failure, particularly in a mechanical or technical context. It is not generally used in medical or biological discussions.

  • The constant overheating is breakdown-inducing for the engine.
  • Certain software bugs can be breakdown-inducing for the entire system.

Examples of usage

  • Lytic enzymes are often used in medical treatments to break down unwanted tissue.
  • Some viruses have lytic properties, causing cell destruction in the host.
  • The lytic effect of certain medications can be beneficial in fighting infections.
  • Chemotherapy drugs work by inducing a lytic response in cancer cells.
  • The lytic activity of the drug was observed in the lab experiments.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Lytic processes are key in virology, where viruses can rupture (lyse) host cells to release new viral particles.
  • Phagocytosis is a lytic action in which certain cells eat and break down bacteria.
  • Bacteriophages are viruses that specifically target bacteria, often using lytic cycles to destroy them.

Medicine

  • Lytic agents are used in some treatments to break down clots in blood vessels.
  • Certain lytic enzymes are used in laboratory settings to analyze cells by breaking them apart.
  • In medicine, the term can also refer to the reduction of fever or rupture of tissue.

Technology

  • In computer science, lytic refers to algorithms that dismantle or break down data to improve processing.
  • Image compression can use lytic principles, where unnecessary data is removed for efficiency.
  • Lytic methods are explored for bioengineering purposes, like creating more effective drug delivery systems.

Pop Culture

  • The term appears in various sci-fi and horror genres, often related to themes of decay or disintegration.
  • In gaming, certain characters or abilities may use lytic attacks to defeat foes by 'breaking them down.'
  • Films depicting biological warfare frequently highlight lytic effects of pathogens on human hosts.

Origin of 'lytic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'lytic' comes from the Greek word 'lytikos,' meaning 'able to dissolve or loosen.'
  • It entered the English language in the late 19th century, often used in biological contexts.
  • Common prefixes include 'bio-' relating to life, as lytic processes often occur in living organisms.

The word 'lytic' originates from the Greek word 'lutikos', meaning capable of unbinding or dissolving. The term has been primarily used in the field of medicine to describe substances or processes that can break down cells or tissues. The concept of lytic activity has been crucial in various medical treatments, such as enzymatic therapies and antiviral medications. Understanding the lytic properties of substances has played a significant role in developing targeted therapies for specific diseases.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,070, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.