white blood cell

noun

: any of the blood cells that are colorless, lack hemoglobin, contain a nucleus, and include the lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils

called also leukocyte, white blood corpuscle, white cell

compare red blood cell

Examples of white blood cell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Symptoms can include: Enlarged lymph nodes Severe fatigue Frequent infections Additionally, treatment is considered if there is a rapid increase in white blood cell count or a decrease in other blood levels, such as red blood cells and platelets. —Doru Paul, Verywell Health, 16 July 2024

This test screens for blood components like red and white blood cells and platelets (irregular values detect infection), anemia (low red blood cell count), immune system problems, and other blood disorders. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 13 July 2024

Multiple myeloma is a cancer which forms in white blood cells called plasma cells, according to Mayo Clinic. —Gillian Brassil, Sacramento Bee, 8 July 2024

Lifting the skin and opening up blood flow also facilitates the transport of white blood cells to the area, thus reducing harmful bacteria and waste products from cells and tissues. —Cory Smith, Outside Online, 26 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

white blood cell

noun

: a colorless blood cell (as a lymphocyte) that lacks hemoglobin and contains a nucleus

called also leukocyte, white blood corpuscle, white cell, white corpuscle

Medical Definition

white blood cell

noun

: any of the blood cells of the immune system that are colorless, lack hemoglobin, contain a nucleus, and include the lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils along with their precursors and derivatives (as macrophages) : leukocyte

—abbreviation WBC

called also white blood corpuscle, white cell, white corpuscle

compare red blood cell