macrophage

American  

[mak-ruh-feyj] / ˈmæk rəˌfeɪdʒ /

noun

Cell Biology.

1. a large white blood cell, occurring principally in connective tissue and in the bloodstream, that ingests foreign particles and infectious microorganisms by phagocytosis.

---

macrophage British  

/ ˈmækrəʊˌfeɪdʒ, ˌmækrəʊˈfædʒɪk /

noun

1. any large phagocytic cell occurring in the blood, lymph, and connective tissue of vertebrates See also histiocyte

---

macrophage Scientific  

/ măk′rə-fāj′ /

1. Any of various large white blood cells that play an essential immunologic role in vertebrates and some lower organisms by eliminating cellular debris and particulate antigens, including bacteria, through phagocytosis. Macrophages develop from circulating monocytes that migrate from the blood into tissues throughout the body, especially the spleen, liver, lymph nodes, lungs, brain, and connective tissue. Macrophages also participate in the immune response by producing and responding to inflammatory cytokines.

---

Other Word Forms

• macrophagic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of macrophage

From the New Latin word macrophagus, dating back to 1885–90. See macro-, -phage

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

macrophage

The researchers found that continuous low-intensity ultrasound lowered biological markers linked to inflammation while increasing markers associated with a more reparative, M2-like macrophage state.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 12, 2026

They found that the same senescent macrophage signature was significantly higher in diseased livers than in healthy ones.

From Science Daily ● Apr. 16, 2026

By targeting MafB or the biological pathways it regulates, researchers may be able to restore healthy macrophage function and improve tissue health across a range of diseases.

From Science Daily ● Mar. 1, 2026

When T cells were added to the system, either directly or by exposing them to fluid from the macrophage cultures, the T cells began producing large amounts of IFN-gamma.

From Science Daily ● Dec. 27, 2025

The other form of amoeboid cell, which Metschnikoff calls the macrophage, has more feeble phagocytic action towards bacteria, and these are rarely found enclosed within them.

From Disease and Its Causes by William Thomas Councilman