A cell, organism, or substance that has an affinity for or readily absorbs acidic dyes or stains.
From acid + -phil (Greek philos, loving). Term originates from histology, where scientists use dyes to color cells for microscope study.
Acidophil cells in your pituitary gland are named for how they light up pink under a microscope—they're the acid-loving show-offs of your endocrine system.
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