killer cell

noun

: a lymphocyte (such as a killer T cell or a natural killer cell) with cytotoxic activity

Examples of killer cell 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 group of immune cells that surge during and after short bouts of exercise, which include neutrophils and natural-killer cells, serve as our frontline defense against invading viruses. Katarina Zimmer, Outside Online, 27 Mar. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

1972, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of killer cell was in 1972

Dictionary Entries Near killer cell

Cite this Entry

“Killer cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/killer%20cell. Accessed 16 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

killer cell

noun
: a lymphocyte (as a cytotoxic T cell or a natural killer cell) with cytotoxic activity
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!