1. Parts of Speech: Noun
2. Definition: Serum refers to a clear, thin, and watery fluid that contains important substances like hormones, antibodies, and proteins. It is separated from blood after it has clotted and is used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in medicine.
3. Pronunciations: US: /ˈsɪrəm/; UK: /ˈsɪərəm/
4. Origin and Usage: The word "serum" originated from the Latin word "serum" which means whey. It was first used in medicine in the 17th century to describe the clear liquid that separates from blood after it has clotted. Today, serum is an important diagnostic tool in medicine, as it can be used to identify infections, diseases, and other medical conditions.
5. Synonyms: Plasma, blood serum, antiserum
6. Related Words: Blood, plasma, fluid, serum, cells
7. Example Sentences:
- The doctor ordered a serum test to check for the presence of antibodies in the patients blood.
- The serum was separated from the blood using a centrifuge.
- The patient received a serum injection to help boost their immune system.
- The laboratory technician analyzed the serum sample for any signs of infection.
- The antiserum was used to treat the patients snakebite.