white blood cell

noun

1. any of various nearly colorless cells of the immune system that circulate mainly in the blood and lymph and participate in reactions to invading microorganisms or foreign particles, comprising the B cells, T cells, macrophages, monocytes, and granulocytes.

white blood cell

noun

1. a nontechnical name for leucocyte

white blood cell

/ wīt /

1. Any of various white or colorless cells in the blood of vertebrate animals, many of which participate in the inflammatory and immune responses to protect the body against infection and to repair injuries to tissues. White blood cells are formed mainly in the bone marrow, and unlike red blood cells, have a cell nucleus. The major types of white blood cells are granulocytes , lymphocytes , and monocytes . White blood cells are far less numerous in the blood than red blood cells, but their amount usually increases in response to infection and can be monitored as part of a clinical assessment.
2. Also called leukocyte

Word History and Origins

Origin of white blood cell¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Brainwaves change, body chemistry is transformed, even white blood cell count improves.

From The Daily Beast

In short, drumming can increase the presence of T-cells, the white blood cell that fights viruses.

From The Daily Beast

The white blood cell counts were much lower than usually seen in newly trapped wolves.

From Project Gutenberg

As the virus attacks the alveolar structures, the temperature rises and the white blood cell count becomes elevated.

From Project Gutenberg

The white blood cell is active in another way and it is a very interesting way.

From Project Gutenberg

There is one white blood cell to every four hundred red ones.

From Project Gutenberg