Blood cells are an essential component of the human body’s circulatory system. They are responsible for carrying oxygen, nutrients, and hormones throughout the body and removing waste products from the body. Blood cells come in different types, each with its unique functions and characteristics.
Definitions
Blood cells, also known as hematocytes, are specialized cells that are found in the blood. They are responsible for carrying out the different functions of the blood, such as carrying oxygen, fighting infections, and clotting blood. There are three main types of blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Origin
Blood cells are formed in the bone marrow, a spongy tissue found inside bones. The process of blood cell formation is called hematopoiesis. Hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow divide and differentiate into different types of blood cells.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a blood cell is “a cell that is suspended in the blood and that performs a specific function (such as carrying oxygen or fighting infections).”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines blood cell as “a cell that circulates in the blood and is involved in the transport of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products, and in the immune response.”
Associations
Blood cells are associated with different diseases and conditions. For example, a decrease in the number of red blood cells can lead to anemia, while an increase in white blood cells may indicate an infection or inflammation. Platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting and can be affected by bleeding disorders.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for blood cell include hematocyte, corpuscle, and blood corpuscle.
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms for blood cell.
The same root words
The root word for blood cell is “hemo-” or “hemato-,” which means blood.
Example Sentences
- “The red blood cells in your body carry oxygen to your tissues and organs.”
- “White blood cells are responsible for fighting off infections and foreign invaders in the body.”
- “If you cut yourself, platelets in your blood will help clot the blood and stop the bleeding.”