Eosinophils Meaning and Definition
Eosinophils
Pronunciation
/īˈsɔɪnəfɪlz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A type of white blood cell that plays a role in fighting parasitic infections and allergic reactions, characterized by its distinctive granule-filled cytoplasm.
Etymology
The term “eosinophil” comes from the Greek words “eos” (meaning “dawn” and “phile” (meaning “loving”), referring to the cell’s affinity for the eosin dye used in staining.
Usage Notes
Eosinophils are often used interchangeably with the term “eosinophilar cells,” but technically, eosinophils refers specifically to the type of white blood cell, while eosinophilar cells refer to a mixture of other cells containing eosin-staining granules.
Cultural References
Eosinophils have been featured in several scientific articles and documentaries, including the PBS documentary series “The Human Body” and the National Geographic Channel’s “How the Earth Was Made.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- A “eosinophilic reaction” is a medical term referring to an allergic or inflammatory response.
Related Words or Phrases
- White blood cell
- Immune system
Collocations
- Eosinophils are often found in allergic reactions.
- Eosinophils play a crucial role in fighting parasitic infections.
Frequency of Use
Eosinophils are commonly used in medical contexts, particularly in discussions of allergies, inflammation, and immune responses.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of “eosinophils” include “eosinophelles,” “eosinopils,” and “eosinophilla.”