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
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.
In this condition, the body makes too many mast cells, a type of immune cell that triggers inflammation. Sarah Hudgens, Health, 20 Dec. 2024 Ultimately, her research led to mast cell activation syndrome, or MCAS, a condition in which mast cells (a type of white blood cell) overreact for reasons that aren’t always clear. Erica Sloan, SELF, 3 Dec. 2024 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 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 26 Dec. 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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