Definition

The process of breaking down a blood clot in the body.

Example

Thrombolysis is often used to treat patients who have suffered a heart attack.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new method for treating blood clots?

Yeah, I think it's called thrombolysis, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how they can dissolve clots like that.

It really is — it could save so many lives.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thrombolysis → It is formed from "thrombo-" (from Greek "thrombos", meaning clot) and "lysis" (from Greek "lysis", meaning to loosen or dissolve). The word describes the process of dissolving a blood clot.

Memory Tip

Think of 'clot' ('thrombos') being 'loosened' or 'dissolved' ('lysis') — that's what thrombolysis means.

Visually Confused Words