erythrocyte

Definition

A hemoglobin-containing cell, especially as found in humans but more generally present in the blood of most vertebrates, that is involved with the transport of oxygen; such cells are usually anucleate in humans and many other animals.

Etymology

From erythro- (“red”) + -cyte (“cell”), referring to the red color of hemoglobin when oxygen is bound to it.

Example Sentences

• "The want of success of these names may be attributed to their awkwardness in sound or sense; "erythrocyte" seems the best of them, but is unfortunately four-syllabled."
• "Granular, basic, or punctate degeneration of the erythrocyte is a condition in which this cell presents fine or coarse granules that have an affinity for basic stains."