Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

phagocytose

verb

/ˌfægəʊsɪˈtəʊz/

Definition

To engulf and digest microorganisms or other cells, typically performed by certain white blood cells in the immune system.

Examples

The immune cells will phagocytose the bacteria to eliminate the infection.
Once the pathogens are identified, they will be quickly phagocytosed by macrophages.
During the immune response, neutrophils phagocytose debris to aid in healing.

Meaning

Phagocytosis is a process by which a cell, often a type of white blood cell, captures and consumes particles or other cells to protect the body from infections.