LDL

noun

ˌel-(ˌ)dē-ˈel 

: a lipoprotein of blood plasma that is composed of a moderate proportion of protein with little triglyceride and a high proportion of cholesterol and that is associated with increased probability of developing atherosclerosis : bad cholesterol compare hdl

Examples of LDL in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Key Takeaways Eating leafy green vegetables, whole grains, nuts, berries, legumes, oily fish, and more may lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. —Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 16 June 2026

Participants lost 8% of body weight and 16% of body fat, with significant improvements in LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. —Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 10 June 2026

Knowing your numbers, specifically blood pressure, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, fasting glucose and if appropriate Lp(a), gives clinicians the clearest picture of where risk actually sits. —Allison Palmer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 June 2026

Pectins help keep your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in check. —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 2 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

low-density lipoprotein

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

LDL

noun

ˈel-ˈdē-ˈel 

: a lipoprotein of blood plasma that is composed of a moderate proportion of protein with little triglyceride and a high proportion of cholesterol and that is associated with increased probability of developing atherosclerosis

called also bad cholesterol, beta-lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein

compare hdl, vldl