Agglutinin is a term that is commonly used in the field of biology and medicine. It refers to a substance that causes the clumping together of cells or particles in a solution. This article will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of agglutinin, as well as its associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of its use in sentences.
Definitions
Agglutinin is defined as a substance that causes the clumping together of cells or particles in a solution. It is a type of antibody that binds to the surface of microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses, and causes them to clump together. This makes it easier for the immune system to identify and eliminate the microorganisms.
Origin
The term agglutinin comes from the Latin word “agglutinare,” which means “to glue together.” It was first used in the late 19th century to describe the phenomenon of clumping in blood when mixed with certain substances.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, agglutinin is defined as “an antibody that causes agglutination.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a substance that causes agglutination of cells or particles in a solution.”
Associations
Agglutinin is associated with the immune system and the process of agglutination. It is also used in blood typing to determine a person’s blood type.
Synonyms
Synonyms of agglutinin include clumping factor, agglutinating antibody, and agglutinogen.
Antonyms
Antonyms of agglutinin include disagglutinin and anti-agglutinin.
The same root words
The same root words as agglutinin include agglutinate, agglutination, and agglutinogen.
Example Sentences
- The presence of agglutinin in the blood sample indicated a positive result for the bacteria.
- The agglutinin in the patient’s blood caused the red blood cells to clump together, leading to a transfusion reaction.
- The lab technician added agglutinin to the blood sample to determine the patient’s blood type.