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lytic

adjective
lyt·​ic | \ ˈli-tik How to pronounce lytic (audio) \

Definition of lytic

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: of or relating to lysis or a lysin also : productive of or effecting lysis (as of cells)

-lytic

adjective suffix

Definition of -lytic (Entry 2 of 2)

: of, relating to, or effecting (such) decomposition hydrolytic
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Other Words from lytic

Adjective

lytically \ ˈli-​ti-​k(É™-​)lÄ“ How to pronounce lytically (audio) \ adverb

Examples of lytic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web: Adjective

 Working together as a phage cocktail, lytic phages can target and destroy superbugs. — B David Zarley, The Verge, "These superbug-fighting viruses are making a comeback," 5 July 2019 Additionally, phages can cause different types of infections, typically either lytic or lysogenic. — Beth Mole, Ars Technica, "Never-before-seen viruses that can kill bacteria stream from women’s bladders," 1 Feb. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'lytic.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of lytic

Adjective

1889, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for lytic

Adjective

Greek lytikos able to loose, from lyein

Adjective suffix

Greek lytikos

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More Definitions for lytic

lytic

adjective
lyt·​ic | \ ˈlit-ik How to pronounce lytic (audio) \

Medical Definition of lytic

: of or relating to lysis or a lysin also : productive of or effecting lysis (as of cells) lytic viruses lytic action on cells

Other Words from lytic

lytically \ -​i-​k(É™-​)lÄ“ How to pronounce lytically (audio) \ adverb

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