phagocyte

[ fag-uh-sahyt ]

noun

, Cell Biology.

1. any cell, as a macrophage, that ingests and destroys foreign particles, bacteria, and cell debris.

phagocyte

/ ˈfæɡəˌsaɪt; ˌfæɡəˈsɪtɪk /

noun

1. an amoeboid cell or protozoan that engulfs particles, such as food substances or invading microorganisms

phagocyte

/ făg′ə-sīt′ /

1. Any of various organisms or specialized cells that engulf and ingest other cells or particles. In vertebrate animals, phagocytes are white blood cells that break down bacteria and other microorganisms, foreign particles, and cellular debris. These include monocytes, macrophages, and most granulocytes.
2. ◆ The process by which phagocytes engulf and break down bacteria or particles is called phagocytosis (făg′ə-sī-tō|||PRIMARY_STRESS|||sĭs). During phagocytosis the cell encloses foreign material and the extracellular fluid surrounding it by an infolding of a part of the cell membrane, which then pinches off to form a vesicle, called a phagosome . The phagosomes fuse with lysosomes, resulting in digestion of the ingested matter. Unicellular protists such as amoebas ingest food by the process of phagocytosis.

Derived Forms

• phagocytic, adjective

Other Words From

• phag·o·cyt·ic [fag-, uh, -, sit, -ik], adjective
• nonphag·o·cytic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of phagocyte¹

First recorded in 1880–85; phago- + -cyte

Example Sentences

After Metchnikoff discovered phagocytes, he plunged into researching human immunity, hopeful to find ways to extend lives.

From Nautilus

He replied cryptically that he was an out-and-out phagocyte, and getting more so every time he read a newspaper.

From Project Gutenberg

Hence the names phagocyte, or devouring cell, given to the enveloping white globule, and phagocytosis to the process.

From Project Gutenberg

The new-born “phagocyte theory” was thus very well received by naturalists and by Virchow, the father of cellular pathology.

From Project Gutenberg

However, the general impression of the Congress was clearly favourable to the phagocyte theory.

From Project Gutenberg

Once again the phagocyte theory rose triumphant from the test.

From Project Gutenberg