blood work

noun

variants or less commonly bloodwork

ˈbləd-ˌwərk 

: the diagnostic testing of blood

Some of the kids had blood work done to look at their glucose, insulin, triglycerides and cholesterol levels, which are markers for the risk of type 2 diabetes and future cardiovascular disease.

—Nanci Hellmich

Something else in her blood work intrigued the doctor: nearly half of the white cells seen were a single type of infection-fighting cell—eosinophils.

—Lisa Sanders

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

My blood work reveals that only my vitamin D level is low. —Drew Magary, Men's Health, 28 Mar. 2023

In general, people should plan to have their blood work done every three or so years. —Julia Ries, Health, 9 Mar. 2023

You’re supposed to get blood work every three months to make sure that your kidneys and pancreas and gallbladder haven’t failed you. —David Remnick, The New Yorker, 25 Mar. 2023

Anderson grabbed the ultrasound machine while Campbell started doing blood work. —The Arizona Republic, 20 Mar. 2023

Routine blood work does not typically call for testosterone measurement, so my doctor was sure to add it to the order. —Matt Bach, Men's Health, 25 Feb. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

blood work

noun

variants also bloodwork

: the diagnostic testing of blood

The medical team immediately jumped into action ordering blood work and a chest X-ray, placing an IV line and administering antibiotics.

—Kiran Gupta, The Boston Globe