Definition

A process where red blood cells shrink and develop a notched or scalloped edge due to being in a solution with a higher concentration of solutes.

Example

The scientist observed crenation in the red blood cells when they were placed in a saline solution.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the crenation on the edge of that old coin?

Yeah, it's pretty interesting how those rounded projections form over time.

I wonder if that crenation affects its value as a collector's item.

It probably does, especially since those details make it unique!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Crenation → It is formed from "crena" (from Latin, meaning notch or indentation) and the suffix "-ation" (indicating a process or action). The word describes the process of forming notches or indentations, particularly in cells when they shrink in a hypertonic solution.

Memory Tip

Think of 'notches' ('crena') being formed during a process ('-ation') — that's why crenation refers to the formation of indentations.

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