Pronunciation: [fˈaɡəsˌa͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "phagocyte" is spelled with the "ph" combination because it comes from the Greek word phagein, which means "to eat". The "o" in "ocyte" is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "oat", and the "cyte" is pronounced as "site". Therefore, the IPA transcription for "phagocyte" is /ˈfæɡəˌsaɪt/. A phagocyte is a type of cell in the body that engulfs and destroys foreign substances, such as bacteria, viruses, and dead cells.
Phagocytes are a specialized type of white blood cell that play a pivotal role in the immune system's defense against foreign substances and microorganisms. Derived from the Greek words "phagein" (meaning "to eat" or "devour") and "kutos" (meaning "cell"), phagocytes are cellular components responsible for engulfing, ingesting, and destroying harmful particles through a process known as phagocytosis.
These cells are found in various tissues throughout the body, such as the spleen, lymph nodes, and bone marrow. The two main types of phagocytes are neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant phagocytes, typically found in high numbers at sites of infection or inflammation. Macrophages, on the other hand, are larger cells that primarily reside within tissues, where they patrol for and eliminate foreign invaders.
Phagocytes play a crucial role in the immune response by recognizing, binding to, and engulfing pathogens, cellular debris, and other harmful substances. Once captured, phagocytes deploy a range of destructive mechanisms, including the production of toxic enzymes and chemicals, to kill and break down the ingested material.
In addition to their role in immune defense, phagocytes also contribute to tissue repair and regulation of the immune system's response. Dysfunctions or deficiencies in phagocytes can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, impaired wound healing, and various immune disorders.
Overall, phagocytes are essential components of the body's defense system, acting as the first line of defense against invading pathogens and maintaining the health and integrity of tissues.
A cell possessing the property of ingesting bacteria, foreign particles, and other cells. Phagocytes are divided into two general classes: microphags, small polymorphonuclear leucocytes which ingest chiefly bacteria; and macrophags, large mononucleated cells which are largely scavengers, ingesting dead tissue and degenerated cells; the latter are produced mainly by proliferation of the fixed connective-tissue cells.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "phagocyte" is derived from the Greek roots "phagein" meaning "to eat" and "kutos" meaning "cell". In Greek, "phago-" represents the act of eating or devouring, while "-cyte" refers to a cell. Hence, "phagocyte" literally means "a cell that eats". The term was coined by the Russian biologist Ilya Ilyich Mechnikov in the late 19th century to describe certain cells within the immune system that have the ability to engulf and destroy foreign particles such as bacteria or dead cells through a process known as phagocytosis.
