mast cell

noun

ˈmast- 

: 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

The activation of mast cells can frequently lead to inflammation and the itch response thanks to their recruitment of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell also involved with the body's immune response. —Michael Franco, New Atlas, 31 Jan. 2025

The team is now investigating new therapies for dermatitis that suppress inflammation by targeting receptors on mast cells. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 30 Jan. 2025

That being said, because mast cells are also involved in innate immunity, the researchers wondered if scratching's role in activating them conveys some kind of infection-fighting benefit. —Michael Franco, New Atlas, 31 Jan. 2025

Eye drops: Choose eye drops containing an antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer like Pataday (olopatadine) or Zaditor (ketotifen ophthalmic). —Daniel More, Verywell Health, 15 Jan. 2025

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

Rhymes for mast cell

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Medical Definition

mast cell

noun

ˈmast- 

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