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

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

Specifically, chronic exposure to ethylene oxide over many years increases the risk of cancers of the white blood cells, such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as breast cancer, according to the EPA.

From Los Angeles Times

In APDS, an enzyme produced in the body is "switched on" all the time, disrupting the development of white blood cells and causing the immune system to be disregulated.

From BBC

My white blood cell count was low too, which can also be a sign of cancer.

From Salon

These are tiny cyborgs, though even tinier ones exist, involving microbes like bacteria or even a type of white blood cell.

From Salon

He’s undergoing a second round of chemotherapy and receiving white blood cell injections to aid his immune system.

From Los Angeles Times