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

Study participants were also treated aggressively in other ways to drive down their LDL cholesterol and get blood pressure readings into a healthy range. — Erika Edwards, NBC news, 7 Nov. 2026

In contrast, adults consuming almonds daily for six weeks saw lower LDL cholesterol levels without any increases in body weight. — Mark Gurarie, HEALTH, 4 Nov. 2026

Research has found that oat beta-glucan can help lower LDL cholesterol, which is why oats are often recommended as part of a heart-healthy diet. — Jennifer Klump, Verywell Health, 29 Oct. 2026

In the trial, participants experienced reductions in several cardiovascular risk factors, including systolic blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, systemic inflammation and neck circumference. — Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 28 Oct. 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