mast cell

noun

: a granulocyte that occurs especially in connective tissue and has basophilic granules containing substances (such as histamine and heparin) which mediate allergic reactions

Examples of mast cell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
When your immune system detects an allergen, mast cells release histamine and other chemicals that cause your blood vessels to become a bit leaky. Katie Camero, SELF, 23 Oct. 2024 Antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, and prescription eyedrops containing steroids can treat eye burning. Lindsay Curtis, Health, 4 Sep. 2024 Halsey has discussed other health struggles in the past, including a battle with endometriosis, as well as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Sjögren’s syndrome, mast cell activation syndrome and POTS diagnoses. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 26 Sep. 2024 They have also previously been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, endometriosis, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), Sjogren’s syndrome, and MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome). EW.com, 26 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for mast cell 

Word History

Etymology

partial translation of German Mastzelle, from Mast food, mast (from Old High German) + Zelle cell

First Known Use

circa 1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mast cell was circa 1890

Dictionary Entries Near mast cell

Cite this Entry

“Mast cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mast%20cell. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

mast cell

noun
: a granulocyte that occurs especially in connective tissue and has basophilic granules containing substances (as histamine and heparin) which mediate allergic reactions

More from Merriam-Webster on mast cell

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