How Do You Spell OPSONIC?

Pronunciation: [ɒpsˈɒnɪk] (IPA)

The word "opsonic" is spelled as /ɒpˈsɒnɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced as "ɒp", with a short o sound, followed by "s", pronounced as "s". The second syllable is pronounced as "sɒn", with a short o sound, followed by "ɪk", pronounced as "ɪk". This word is used in microbiology and immunology to refer to substances that enhance phagocytosis by immune cells. Pronouncing the word correctly can help in effective communication in the scientific community.

OPSONIC Meaning and Definition

1. Opsonic is an adjective typically used in medical and immunology contexts. It refers to a substance or process that enhances the process of phagocytosis, which is the engulfment and destruction of microorganisms by immune cells called phagocytes. Opsonic substances are recognized by phagocytes, such as neutrophils or macrophages, which have receptors on their surface that can bind to these substances.

   In this context, opsonization is the process of marking foreign particles, such as invading bacteria or viruses, for destruction by phagocytic cells. Opsonic substances, also known as opsonins, include antibodies such as immunoglobulin G (IgG) or complement proteins, which can coat the surface of foreign particles and enhance their uptake and destruction by phagocytes.

   Opsonic substances function by binding to the pathogens, making them more recognizable to phagocytes and facilitating their clearance from the body. This process plays a pivotal role in the body's immune response to infections, ensuring the removal of infectious agents and the restoration of health.

   The term "opsonic" is derived from the Greek word "opson," which means "delicacy" or "rare relish." In the context of the immune response, it emphasizes the role of opsonins as enhancing the recognition and consumption of pathogens by phagocytes, leading to their elimination from the body.

2. Relating to opsonins or to their utilization in the treatment of diseases.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for OPSONIC

• ipsonic
• kpsonic
• lpsonic
• ppsonic
• 0psonic
• 9psonic
• oosonic
• olsonic
• o-sonic
• o0sonic
• opaonic
• opdonic
• opeonic
• opwonic
• opsinic
• opsknic
• opslnic
• opspnic
• ops0nic
• ops9nic

Etymology of OPSONIC

The word "opsonic" comes from the Greek word "opsōn" (ὄψον), meaning "food" or "sauce". In ancient Greece, "opsōn" referred to a savory sauce or condiment that was used to enhance the taste of food. This Greek term was later borrowed into Latin as "opsonium", which also referred to a sauce or seasoning. The term "opsonic" was then coined in the late 19th century by scientists to describe certain components of the immune system that act as "sauces" or "enhancers" to help immune cells recognize and eliminate pathogens.