Platelet

/ˈpleɪtlət/ noun

Definition

A platelet is a tiny cell fragment in the blood that helps it clot and stop bleeding when you get a cut.

Etymology

From 'plate' plus the diminutive suffix '-let', meaning 'small plate or disk'. Under a microscope, platelets look like little flat disks.

Kelly Says

When you get a scrape, platelets rush to the scene like microscopic emergency workers, sticking together to plug the leak. Without these tiny 'plates', even a small cut could become life-threatening.

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