lytic

1 of 2

adjective

lyt·​ic ˈli-tik How to pronounce lytic (audio)
: of or relating to lysis or a lysin
also : productive of or effecting lysis (as of cells)
lytically adverb

-lytic

2 of 2

adjective suffix

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

Examples of lytic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
This is what’s called a lytic secretion system, which involves the rupture of cell walls or membranes to release toxins. Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 8 Apr. 2024 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

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'lytic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of lytic was in 1889

Dictionary Entries Near lytic

Cite this Entry

“Lytic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lytic. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

lytic

adjective
lyt·​ic ˈlit-ik How to pronounce lytic (audio)
: of or relating to lysis or a lysin
also : productive of or effecting lysis (as of cells)
lytic viruses
lytic action on cells
lytically adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on lytic

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