lytic

1 of 2

adjective

lyt·​ic ˈli-tik 

: of or relating to lysis or a lysin

also : productive of or effecting lysis (as of cells)

lytically

ˈli-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

-lytic

2 of 2

adjective suffix

: of, relating to, or effecting (such) decomposition

hydrolytic

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The genes commandeer the host, using it to manufacture new viruses that eventually burst out of the cell – this is the lytic cycle. —Ed Yong, Discover Magazine, 5 Jan. 2011

Working together as a phage cocktail, lytic phages can target and destroy superbugs. —B David Zarley, The Verge, 5 July 2019

Additionally, phages can cause different types of infections, typically either lytic or lysogenic. —Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 1 Feb. 2018

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Greek lytikos able to loose, from lyein

Adjective suffix

Greek lytikos

First Known Use

Adjective

1889, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

lytic

adjective

lyt·​ic ˈlit-ik 

: of or relating to lysis or a lysin

also : productive of or effecting lysis (as of cells)

lytic viruses

lytic action on cells

lytically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb