Hemolytic

/ˌhiːmoʊˈlɪtɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or causing the breakdown and destruction of red blood cells.

Etymology

From hemolysis + -ic (Greek -ikos, relating to). This medical adjective form allows clinicians and scientists to describe diseases, reactions, or conditions characterized by red blood cell destruction.

Kelly Says

Hemolytic disease is one of medicine's paradoxes—your own immune system attacking your own red blood cells because it's been tricked into thinking they're foreign invaders.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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