platelet

[pleyt-lit]

noun

Cell Biology.

1. a small platelike body, especially a blood platelet.

platelet

/ ˈpleɪtlɪt /

noun

1. Formerly called: thrombocyte. a minute cell occurring in the blood of vertebrates and involved in clotting of the blood

platelet

1. Any of the numerous small, round cell fragments found in the blood of mammals that function in the clotting of blood. Platelets contain no nuclei and are formed in the bone marrow from precursor cells called megakaryocytes. Platelets contribute to the coagulation process by adhering to damaged blood vessels, fibrinogen, and other platelets. An inadequate number of platelets leads to uncontrolled bleeding.

Word History and Origins

Origin of platelet¹

First recorded in 1890–95; plate ¹ + -let

Word History and Origins

Origin of platelet¹

C19: a small _plate

Example Sentences

Untreated, the clots cause organ damage and low red blood cell and platelet counts.

From BBC

But the study showed that another part of our blood - the platelets that normally stop bleeding - were suppressing the T-cells and making it harder for them to take out the cancer.

From BBC

On Sunday, the Pope's thrombocytopenia - a condition that occurs when the platelet count in the blood is too low - was stable, the statement said.

From BBC

They added the pontiff needed blood transfusions due to a low platelet count - associated with anaemia - and he required a "high flow" of oxygen.

From BBC

The blood transfusions were deemed necessary due to a low platelet count, associated with anaemia, the Vatican said.

From BBC