English · Body & Health
cholesterol
/kəˈles.tə.rɒl/
[/kəˈles.tə.rɒl/]
fatty blood substance
Advancednoun
Definition
A fatty substance found in the blood and body cells. Too much of certain types can increase the risk of heart disease.
Example
Her doctor recommended cutting fried foods to lower her cholesterol over the next few months.
Her doctor recommended cutting fried foods to lower her cholesterol over the next few months.
Etymology
Coined in the 19th century from Greek 'chole' (bile) and 'stereos' (solid), plus the chemical suffix -ol.
How & Where It’s Used
Used in health and nutrition discussions, often distinguishing 'good' (HDL) and 'bad' (LDL) cholesterol.