lymphatic

1 of 2

adjective

lym·​phat·​ic lim-ˈfa-tik 

1

a

: of, relating to, or produced by lymph, lymphoid tissue, or lymphocytes

b

: conveying lymph

2

: lacking physical or mental energy : sluggish

lymphatically

lim-ˈfa-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

lymphatic

2 of 2

noun

: a vessel that contains or conveys lymph

called also lymph vessel

Did you know?

Lymph is a pale liquid in the body that helps maintain fluid balance and removes bacteria from tissues. Today, we understand that lymph plays an important role in the body's immune system. In the past, however, it was commonly believed that an excess of lymph caused sluggishness—hence the "sluggish" meaning of lymphatic. The word lymph comes from Latin lympha (meaning "water" or "water goddess"), which itself may be a modification of the Greek word nymphē, meaning "nymph." Both lymph and its related adjective lymphatic have been used in English since the 17th century.

Examples of lymphatic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The tool also features sonic vibration, which helps improve lymphatic drainage with every stroke across your skin. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2024

Studies show that their interventions (including lymphatic drainage, low-back massage, shoulder and full-body massage) can enhance health and well-being. —Dennis Ledenkof, Forbes, 18 Oct. 2024

Noun

In a patient who does not have volume loss in the undereye area, hyaluronic acid fillers can cause an inflammatory reaction, migrate, and cause blockage of the lymphatics, which may lead to on and off swelling, explains Dr. Parsa, noting that that swelling can last for up to 10 years. —Taryn Brooke, Allure, 1 Feb. 2024

At-home lymphatic, gua sha, and LED light massages have also been beneficial in keeping cellulite and loose skin at bay. —Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 3 Sep. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1649, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1667, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing lymphatic

• lymphatic system

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Kids Definition

lymphatic

1 of 2 adjective

lym·​phat·​ic lim-ˈfat-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or produced by lymph

2

: lacking physical or mental energy

lymphatic

2 of 2 noun

: a vessel that contains or transports lymph

called also lymph vessel

Medical Definition

lymphatic

1 of 2 adjective

lym·​phat·​ic lim-ˈfat-ik 

1

a

: of, relating to, or produced by lymph, lymphoid tissue, or lymphocytes

lymphatic nodules

lymphatic infiltration

b

: conveying lymph

a lymphatic channel

2

: lacking physical or mental energy

lymphatically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

lymphatic

2 of 2 noun

: a vessel that contains or conveys lymph, that originates as an interfibrillar or intercellular cleft or space in a tissue or organ, and that if small has no distinct walls or walls composed only of endothelial cells and if large resembles a vein in structure

called also lymphatic vessel, lymph vessel

see thoracic duct