Definition of apoptosis in English:
 apoptosis
noun ˌapə(p)ˈtəʊsɪsˌapəpˈtōsəs
mass nounPhysiology The death of cells which occurs as a normal and controlled part of an organism's growth or development.
Also called programmed cell death
 Example sentencesExamples
-  In addition, the signals that lead a cell to necrosis or apoptosis remain to be elucidated.
 -  We have reported that turmeric also activates the lymphocytes and induces apoptosis to tumor cells.
 -  Radioiodine can cause significant apoptosis and mitotic cell death in the thyroid tissue.
 -  The role of macrophage apoptosis in containing the growth of the bacilli is also discussed.
 -  Programmed cell death by apoptosis plays a key role in molding the form of chick and mammalian limbs, especially the digits.
 
Derivatives
  
adjectiveˌapə(p)ˈtɒtɪk
Physiology  This removal of apoptotic neutrophils by macrophage phagocytosis is a critical process for the resolution of inflammation.
 Example sentencesExamples
-  They are thought to represent lysosomal globules, composed of apoptotic bodies phagocytosed by the tumor cells.
 -  Clearance of apoptotic cells by phagocytes is crucial in maintaining tissue homeostasis.
 -  We recommend further evaluation using additional special techniques for detecting apoptotic leukocytes.
 -  In the first part of this review, the biochemistry and physiology of apoptotic pathways and its regulators are discussed.
 
Origin
  
1970s: from Greek apoptōsis 'falling off', from apo 'from' + ptōsis 'falling, a fall'.