Definition

A type of large white blood cell that helps the body fight infections by engulfing and digesting harmful substances.

Example

Monocytes play a crucial role in the immune system by attacking bacteria and viruses.

Conversation

I learned something interesting about blood cells today.

Oh really? What did you find out?

Did you know that a monocyte is a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections?

That's cool! I didn't know they played such an important role.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Monocyte → It is formed from "mono-" (from Greek "monos", meaning single or one) and "cyte" (from Greek "kytos", meaning cell). The word "monocyte" refers to a type of white blood cell that is single or one in structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mono-' meaning single and 'cyte' meaning cell — a monocyte is a single type of cell in the blood.

Visually Confused Words