HDL

noun

ˌāch-(ˌ)dē-ˈel 

: a lipoprotein of blood plasma that is composed of a high proportion of protein with little triglyceride and cholesterol and that is correlated with reduced risk of atherosclerosis : good cholesterol compare ldl

Examples of HDL in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The main cholesterol and blood fat names to pay attention to are LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. — Gavin Escott, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2026

Think of it as something like the systemic equivalent of HDL cholesterol for the vascular system—a reading that indicates general health and creates a chance to intervene, at minimum, through lifestyle changes. — Mark Ellwood, Robb Report, 9 Aug. 2026

Hazelnuts Hazelnuts, also called filberts, provide monounsaturated fatty acids that boost HDL (good) cholesterol while reducing triglyceride levels. — Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 22 July 2026

Mozaffarian said seed oils can help lower glucose levels, improve insulin sensitivity, reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol, reduce triglycerides and increase levels of positive (HDL) cholesterol. — Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 3 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

high-density lipoprotein

First Known Use

1954, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

HDL

noun

ˈāch-ˈdē-ˈel 

: a lipoprotein of blood plasma that is composed of a high proportion of protein with little triglyceride and cholesterol and that is associated with decreased probability of developing atherosclerosis

called also alpha-lipoprotein, good cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein

compare ldl, vldl