1
: the major histocompatibility complex in humans
2
: a genetic locus, gene, or antigen of HLA
often used with one or more letters to designate a locus or with letters and a number to designate an allele at the locus or the antigen corresponding to the locus and allele

Examples of HLA in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The other 11 were a mixed bag: some had defects, and some were healthy but incompatible with Alessia's HLA. Zoey Lyttle, People.com, 27 Jan. 2025 One out-of-state door knocker with HLA alleges that their quota was to hit 200 doors per day in the burning sun—a difficult total to hit even under more bearable weather. Makena Kelly, WIRED, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

human leukocyte antigen

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of HLA was in 1968

Dictionary Entries Near HLA

Cite this Entry

“HLA.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/HLA. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Medical Definition

HLA

noun
1
: the major histocompatibility complex in humans
2
: a genetic locus, gene, or antigen of the major histocompatibility complex in humans
often used attributively
HLA antigens
HLA typing
often used with one or more letters to designate a locus or with letters and a number to designate an allele at the locus or the antigen corresponding to the locus and allele
relationship … between HLA-B27 antigen and ankylosing spondylitis G. E. Ehrlich
Etymology

human leukocyte antigen

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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