How Do You Spell PHAGOCYTIC?

Pronunciation: [fˌaɡəsˈɪtɪk] (IPA)

Phagocytic is a word used in biology to describe the process of cells engulfing and consuming foreign particles. This word is spelled with a "ph" instead of an "f" because it is derived from the Greek word "phagein," meaning "to eat." The "g" sound in "phagein" is represented by the "c" in phagocytic. The IPA transcription of this word is /fəˌɡɒsɪˈtɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable. Correct spelling of scientific terms is important for clear communication and accuracy in research.

PHAGOCYTIC Meaning and Definition

1. Phagocytic is an adjective that refers to the ability or process of specific cells known as phagocytes to engulf and ingest foreign particles or microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and dead cells. These phagocytes play a crucial role in the immune response and are primarily found in tissues that are frequently exposed to pathogens, such as the spleen, liver, and lymph nodes.

   The phagocytic process involves several stages: chemotaxis, in which the phagocytes are attracted to the site of infection or inflammation; adherence, where the phagocytes attach themselves to the surface of the foreign particle; ingestion, where the pathogen or particle is engulfed by the phagocyte to form a phagosome; and finally, digestion, where the phagosome fuses with lysosomes containing enzymes that break down the pathogen.

   Phagocytic cells are essential for defending the body against harmful invaders, as they are capable of not only destroying pathogens directly but also presenting pieces of them to other immune cells in order to trigger a more specific immune response. They play a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immunity, helping to prevent the spread of infection and maintain overall health.

   The term "phagocytic" is derived from the Greek words "phagein," meaning "to eat," and "kytos," meaning "container" or "cell." Thus, it literally translates to "cell that eats."

2. Relating to phagocytes or phagocytosis.

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

Common Misspellings for PHAGOCYTIC

• ohagocytic
• lhagocytic
• -hagocytic
• 0hagocytic
• pgagocytic
• pbagocytic
• pnagocytic
• pjagocytic
• puagocytic
• pyagocytic
• phzgocytic
• phsgocytic
• phwgocytic
• phqgocytic
• phafocytic
• phavocytic
• phabocytic
• phahocytic
• phayocytic

Etymology of PHAGOCYTIC

The word "phagocytic" is derived from the Greek roots "phagein" meaning "to eat" and "kytos" meaning "cell". Combined, they form the term "phagocyte", which is a type of cell capable of engulfing and ingesting foreign substances, such as bacteria or particles. The "-ic" suffix is added to form the adjective form, "phagocytic", which describes the capability or function of these cells.

Similar spelling words for PHAGOCYTIC

• phagocytosis,
• phagocyte.