Hemoglobin Meaning and Definition

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin

Pronunciation

/hɪmˈɒɡloʊbɪn/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues and returns carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs for exhalation.

Etymology

The term “hemoglobin” comes from the Greek words “haima” (blood) and “globos” (sphere), referring to the globular shape of the protein.

Usage Notes

Hemoglobin is often mentioned in medical contexts, particularly in relation to blood disorders or blood tests.

Cultural References

Hemoglobin has appeared in various forms of media, such as in the medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy” and in the film “The Fifth Element”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

N/A

Related Words or Phrases

  • Oxygen
  • Carbon dioxide
  • Red blood cells

Collocations

  • Hemoglobin levels
  • Hemoglobin test

Frequency of Use

Hemoglobin is a commonly used term in medical and scientific contexts, but less often in everyday conversation.

Common Misspellings

hemaglobin, hemaglobine, hemoglobine

Related Words