Hemoglobulin

/ˌhiːmoʊˈɡloʊbjəlɪn/ noun

Definition

A protein compound found in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.

Etymology

From hemo- (Greek haima, blood) + globulin (from Latin globus, sphere). Named for its spherical protein structure and its primary function in blood, this term became standard in the 19th century with advances in biochemistry.

Kelly Says

Hemoglobin is so clever—it grabs oxygen in your lungs where oxygen is plentiful, then releases it in your muscles where it's needed; it's like a molecular delivery driver following supply and demand.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.