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neutrophilic

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌnjuːtrəˈfɪlɪk/

KK: /ˌnjuːtrəˈfɪlɪk/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections.


Example

The doctor explained that neutrophilic cells are crucial for the immune response.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the new study on neutrophilic responses in the immune system?
Sloth B
No, I haven't! What did it say?
Sloth A
It mentioned how neutrophilic activity can affect recovery times in patients.
Sloth B
That sounds really interesting! I love learning about how our bodies work.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
phagocytic
immune
defensive
Antonyms
eosinophilic
basophilic
nonimmune
Root Explanation

Neutrophilic → It is formed from "neutro-" (from Greek "neutros", meaning neither) and "-philic" (from Greek "philos", meaning loving). The word describes a type of white blood cell that is neither acidic nor basic in its staining properties, thus 'loving' neutral conditions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'neutro-' meaning 'neither' and '-philic' meaning 'loving' — neutrophilic cells are those that thrive in neutral environments.

Visually Confused Words
neurophilic
necrophilic
neurophil
eutrophic
neurotrophic
neuratrophic
neurophile
aerophilic
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