lymph

1 of 2

noun

ˈlim(p)f 

1

archaic : the sap of plants

2

[New Latin lympha, from Latin, water] : a usually clear coagulable fluid that passes from intercellular spaces of body tissue into the lymphatic vessels, is discharged into the blood by way of the thoracic duct, and resembles blood plasma in containing white blood cells and especially lymphocytes but normally few red blood cells and no platelets

lymph-

2 of 2

combining form

variants or lympho-

: lymph : lymphatic tissue

lymphogranuloma

Examples of lymph in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The long strokes and deep pressure reduces aches and pains, improves blood circulation, and [assists with] lymph drainage and muscle toning. —Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 7 Sep. 2024

And my body never ceased to change: baldness and complete loss of body hair, scarring, and, in the weeks after the operation, in the hollow of my armpit, a sort of big orange filled with lymph that forced me to hold my arm away from my chest. —Annie Ernaux, The New Yorker, 19 Aug. 2024

In addition to blood, another fluid flows through the body: lymph. —Desireé Oostland, Vogue, 30 July 2024

Some studies show that almonds and other nuts can also improve vascular function (vessels that carry blood and lymph fluid), which is linked to a lower risk of heart disease.4 Experts recommend eating four servings of unsalted, unoiled nuts per week. —Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 1 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Latin lympha, water goddess, water, perhaps modification of Greek nymphē nymph — more at nuptial

Combining form

New Latin lympha

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1673, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing lymph

• angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia
• giant lymph node hyperplasia
• lymph gland
• lymph node
• mucocutaneous lymph node disease
• mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome

Kids Definition

lymph

noun

ˈlim(p)f 

: a usually clear fluid that circulates in lymphatic vessels, bathes the cells of the body, and consists of white blood cells and a liquid portion resembling blood plasma

Medical Definition

lymph

noun

ˈlim(p)f 

: a usually clear coagulable fluid that passes from intercellular spaces of body tissue into the lymphatic vessels, is discharged into the blood by way of the thoracic duct and right lymphatic duct, and resembles blood plasma in containing white blood cells and especially lymphocytes but normally few red blood cells and no platelets see chyle compare cerebrospinal fluid