BLOOD CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A blood cell refers to a specialized type of cell found in the bloodstream, responsible for carrying out various crucial functions in the body. Blood cells are classified into three main types - red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets.
Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, are the most abundant type of blood cell, primarily responsible for oxygen transport throughout the body. Their distinctive red color arises from the iron-rich protein called hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen in the lungs and releases it in tissues. Red blood cells lack a nucleus and organelles, allowing for increased space to accommodate more hemoglobin.
White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a critical role in defending the body against infections and diseases. They are involved in the immune response by identifying and neutralizing foreign invaders like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Unlike red blood cells, white blood cells have a nucleus and various specialized components that enable them to perform their immune functions effectively.
Platelets, also called thrombocytes, are cell fragments that facilitate blood clotting, preventing excessive bleeding. When blood vessels are damaged, platelets undergo changes to form clumps and release chemical signals that trigger a cascade of events leading to the formation of a blood clot, thus preventing excessive blood loss.
In summary, blood cells are integral components of the circulatory system with distinct roles. Red blood cells transport oxygen, white blood cells combat pathogens, and platelets promote clotting. Together, these blood cells contribute to the overall health and optimal functioning of the body.
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• One of the formed elements of the blood, a leucocyte or erythrocyte.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BLOOD CELL
- vlood cell
- nlood cell
- hlood cell
- glood cell
- bkood cell
- bpood cell
- boood cell
- bliod cell
- blkod cell
- bllod cell
- blpod cell
- bl0od cell
- bl9od cell
- bloid cell
- blokd cell
- blold cell
- blopd cell
- blo0d cell
- blo9d cell
- bloos cell
Etymology of BLOOD CELL
The word "blood cell" can be broken down into two parts: "blood" and "cell".
The term "blood" originated from the Old English word "blod", which is likely derived from the Proto-Germanic word "blōþam". This word can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root word "bhel-" or "bhol-", meaning "to swell, gush, or spurt". The concept of blood has been recognized as vital and associated with life since ancient times.
The term "cell" comes from the Latin word "cella", which originally referred to a small room or chamber. It was later adopted in biology to describe the smallest structural and functional unit of organisms. The use of the term "cell" to describe biological units dates back to the mid-17th century when Robert Hooke observed and named the tiny structures he saw under a microscope as "cells".
Similar spelling words for BLOOD CELL
- blood glucose,
- blood knot,
- blood cyst,
- blood clot,
- blood count,
- blood agar,
- bloodiest,
- blood disease,
- blood clam,
- bloodshed,
- blood cup,
- blood test,
- blood vessel,
- bloodies,
- bloodsucker.
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