leukocyte

noun

leu·​ko·​cyte ˈlü-kə-ˌsīt How to pronounce leukocyte (audio)
: any of the colorless blood cells of the immune system including the neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils, and their derivatives : white blood cell
leukocytic adjective

Examples of leukocyte 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.
These tests detect signs of infection, such as leukocyte esterase (white blood cell matter in the urine) and nitrite in the urine.4 Home testing is never as accurate or effective as testing in a medical clinic or hospital. Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 24 Jan. 2025 This causes capillary leakage, resulting in pulmonary edema (fluid retention in the lungs) and leukocyte (white blood cell) recruitment into the alveoli (lung air sacs) which compromises respiratory function. Steve Brozak, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025 People with leukemia have many abnormal white blood cells (leukocytes) in their blood. Carrie Madormo, Rn, Health, 26 Sep. 2024 This medication targets an adhesion molecule called E-selectin with the goal of preventing leukocytes from sticking to blood vessels. Emily Sohn, Scientific American, 17 Sep. 2024 According to research, the shock of the cold temperature causes the production of leukocytes in your body. Georgia Day, Vogue, 16 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of leukocyte was in 1870

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Cite this Entry

“Leukocyte.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leukocyte. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

leukocyte

noun
leu·​ko·​cyte ˈlü-kə-ˌsīt How to pronounce leukocyte (audio)

Medical Definition

leukocyte

noun
leu·​ko·​cyte
variants or chiefly British leucocyte
: any of the colorless blood cells of the immune system including the neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils, and their derivatives : white blood cell

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