Definition

The process in which fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting, is broken down, typically by an enzyme called plasmin.

Example

Fibrinolysis is an important process in the healing of wounds as it helps to remove blood clots.

Conversation

I read about fibrinolysis in my biology class today.

Oh really? What did you learn about it?

It's the process that breaks down fibrin in our blood.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know that was how our body handles clots.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fibrinolysis → It is formed from "fibrin" (from Latin "fibrina", meaning a protein involved in blood clotting) and "lysis" (from Greek "lysis", meaning to loosen or dissolve). The word describes the process of dissolving fibrin in blood clots.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fibrin' as the protein that forms clots and 'lysis' as the process of breaking down — that's how fibrinolysis means the breakdown of blood clots.

Visually Confused Words