Cytophagic

/saɪtəʊˈfædʒɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characterized by the consumption or destruction of cells, describing organisms or processes that eat cellular material.

Etymology

From Greek 'kytos' (cell) + 'phagos' (eating) + '-ic' (adjective suffix). This creates an adjective describing cell-eating behavior or organisms.

Kelly Says

White blood cells in your immune system are cytophagic—they actively hunt down and consume bacteria, viruses, and dead cells in a process called phagocytosis that's absolutely essential for keeping you healthy.

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