sickle cell

noun

: an abnormal red blood cell of crescent shape

Examples of sickle cell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
How many people with sickle cell disease have received these therapies? — Tanya Lewis, Scientific American, 5 May 2026 Since then, Hall has led a foundation offering support to people battling sickle cell. — Larry Seward, CBS News, 29 June 2026 Group 5 is the catch-all for other underlying disease causes, from sickle cell anemia to thyroid disease to chronic kidney failure. — Elizabeth Cooney, STAT, 26 June 2026 Doctors and nurses became a constant presence in her life, especially as her fourth child, Travis, battled sickle cell disease, strokes and a long, uncertain recovery that once stripped him of the ability to walk or speak. — Nancy Badertscher, AJC.com, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for sickle cell

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sickle cell was circa 1923

Rhymes for sickle cell

See All Rhymes for sickle cell

Browse Nearby Words

sickle-billed
sickle cell
sickle cell anemia
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Cite this Entry

“Sickle cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sickle%20cell. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sickle cell

noun
: an abnormal red blood cell that is crescent-shaped

Medical Definition

sickle cell

noun
1
: an abnormal rigid, sticky red blood cell of crescent shape
2
: a condition characterized by sickle cells : sickle cell anemia, sickle-cell trait
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