phagocytosis

American  

[fag-uh-sahy-toh-sis] / ˌfæg ə saɪˈtoʊ sɪs /

noun

1. Physiology. the ingestion of a smaller cell or cell fragment, a microorganism, or foreign particles by means of the local infolding of a cell's membrane and the protrusion of its cytoplasm around the fold until the material has been surrounded and engulfed by closure of the membrane and formation of a vacuole: characteristic of amebas and some types of white blood cells.

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phagocytosis British  

/ ˌfæɡəsaɪˈtəʊsɪs /

noun

1. the process by which a cell, such as a white blood cell, ingests microorganisms, other cells, and foreign particles

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Etymology

Origin of phagocytosis

First recorded in 1890–95; phagocyte + -osis

Compare meaning

How does phagocytosis compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• phagocytosis vs. pinocytosis

Example Sentences

Phagocytosis helps amoebae to take up nutrients and cilia help amoebae move.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Phagocytosis allows amoebae to move and pseudopodia help in the uptake of nutrients.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Phagocytosis executes delayed neuronal death after focal brain ischemia.

From Nature • Apr. 10, 2018

Phagocytosis is the process by which large particles, such as cells, are taken in by a cell.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013

Phagocytosis: the destruction or devouring of bacteria or other microorganisms by phagocytes.

From Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology by Smith, John. B.