bad cholesterol

noun

: a lipoprotein of blood plasma that is associated with increased probability of developing atherosclerosis : ldl
The two-year study of 507 patients is the most ambitious yet to test whether driving down bad cholesterol turns back the clock on plaque buildup in coronary arteries.Steve Sternberg
A growing body of research suggests that atherosclerosis probably traces to oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the so-called bad cholesterol.Janet Raloff
compare good cholesterol

Examples of bad cholesterol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This type of fat can help lower levels of bad cholesterol, called low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Joy Emeh, Health, 9 Dec. 2025 Offers Heart Protection Preliminary research suggests that plum fruit benefits may include significantly lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol. Ross Phan, Verywell Health, 21 Nov. 2025 This goes against current thinking that high consumption of saturated fats raises levels of bad cholesterol and increases the risk of heart disease. Joseph Choi, The Hill, 17 Nov. 2025 While the average age for being diagnosed with heart disease in the United States is typically in the mid-60s for men and early 70s for women, the factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and bad cholesterol levels, can start years, sometimes decades, earlier. NBC news, 17 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bad cholesterol

Word History

First Known Use

1977, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bad cholesterol was in 1977

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Cite this Entry

“Bad cholesterol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bad%20cholesterol. Accessed 18 Dec. 2025.

Medical Definition

bad cholesterol

noun
: ldl
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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