sickle cell

noun

, Pathology.

1. an abnormal red blood cell having an elongated, crescentlike shape due to the presence of an abnormal hemoglobin.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sickle cell¹

First recorded in 1925–30; so called from the fact that the cells are often sickle-shaped

Example Sentences

Maryland moved into the next phase of vaccination Monday, expanding eligibility to include immunocompromised people such as those with cancer, sickle cell disease or diabetes.

From Washington Post

I made sure I fully understood sickle cell disease, so that I could live the fullest life possible without it holding me back.

From Essence.com

This technique has already been used in trials to cure sickle cell anemia.

From Time

In sickle cell disease, hemoglobin — the abundant, oxygen-carrying protein in red-blood cells — is mutated, and when not oxygenated may form polymers, which leads to cell sickling and disease manifestation.

From Ozy

Gene editing has emerged as another treatment option for genetically inherited human diseases including sickle cell disease.

From Quartz

The periodic agony that accompanies sickle cell was joined by the torment of persistent eye infections and repeated surgeries.

From The Daily Beast

Inherited blood disorders such as sickle-cell anemia can also lead to anemia.

From Project Gutenberg