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

Patients who received the highest dose saw their LDL cholesterol levels fall by 49% and their triglyceride levels fall by 55%. —David Cox, NBC news, 6 Apr. 2026

Research found that regularly eating too much saturated fat increased the tendency of LDL particles to clump together. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 3 Apr. 2026

Whole grains contain more fiber than refined grains, which helps reduce blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol, and maintain a healthy weight. —Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 31 Mar. 2026

Some studies have shown that cumin powder can lower bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. —Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 26 Mar. 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