serum

Definition

Serum is the clear liquid part of blood that remains after the blood cells and clotting factors have been removed. It contains proteins, antibodies, and other substances that are important for the body's immune system.

Serum can be used to test for diseases, to diagnose infections, and to treat some medical conditions. It is also used in some vaccines.

How can the word be used?

The doctor drew blood serum from the patient.

Different forms of the word

Noun:

the clear liquid part of blood or milk that separates from the solid parts when they are allowed to stand.
a clear liquid that is produced by the body in response to an infection or vaccination.

Etymology

The word "serum" comes from the Latin word "serum", which means "whey".

The first recorded use of the word "serum" in English was in the 14th century.

The word "serum" is a Latin word, and it is related to the English word "serous".

Question

What is serum?