lysis

[ lahy-sis ]

/ ˈlaɪ sɪs /

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noun, plural ly·ses

[lahy-seez]. /ˈlaɪ siz/.

Immunology, Biochemistry. the dissolution or destruction of cells by lysins.

Medicine/Medical. the gradual recession of a disease.Compare crisis (def. 4).

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His boss, whom he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

His boss, who he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

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Origin of lysis

1815–25; <New Latin <Greek lýsis a loosening, releasing, equivalent to ly-, variant stem of lȳ́(ein) to loosen, release + -sis-sis

Other definitions for lysis (2 of 2)

-lysis

a combining form with the meaning “breaking down, loosening, decomposition,” used in the formation of compound words: analysis; electrolysis; paralysis.

Origin of -lysis

From Greek; see origin at lysis

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use lysis in a sentence

There is evil too inseparable from good (compare Lysis); not always punished here, as good is not always rewarded.
Phaedo|Plato
She was extremely clear-headed in her reason, and referred them to the Symposium and the dialogue on Lysis, to prove her point.
Dodo's Daughter|E. F. Benson
Some difference appears to be intended between the characters of the more talkative Menexenus and the reserved and simple Lysis.
Lysis|Plato
This attracted Lysis, who was constantly turning round to look at us—he was evidently wanting to come to us.
Lysis|Plato

Lysis and Menexenus gave a faint assent to this; and Hippothales changed into all manner of colours with delight.
Lysis|Plato

British Dictionary definitions for lysis (1 of 2)

lysis

/ (ˈlaɪsɪs) /

noun plural -ses (-siːz)

the destruction or dissolution of cells by the action of a particular lysin

med the gradual reduction in severity of the symptoms of a disease

Word Origin for lysis

C19: New Latin, from Greek, from luein to release

British Dictionary definitions for lysis (2 of 2)

-lysis

n combining form

indicating a loosening, decomposition, or breaking downelectrolysis; paralysis

Word Origin for -lysis

from Greek, from lusis a loosening; see lysis

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Scientific definitions for lysis

lysis

[ lī′sĭs ]

The disintegration of a cell resulting from destruction of its membrane by a chemical substance, especially an antibody or enzyme.