serum

[seer-uhm]

noun

plural

serums, sera 

1. the clear, pale-yellow liquid that separates from the clot in the coagulation of blood; blood serum.

2. immune serum.

3. any watery animal fluid.

4. the thin, clear part of the fluid of plants.

5. milk whey.

serum

/ ˈsɪərəm /

noun

1. See blood serum

2. antitoxin obtained from the blood serum of immunized animals

3. physiol zoology clear watery fluid, esp that exuded by serous membranes

4. a less common word for whey

serum

plural

serums 

1. See blood serum

2. Blood serum extracted from an animal that has immunity to a particular disease. The serum contains antibodies to one or more specific disease antigens, and when injected into humans or other animals, it can transfer immunity to those diseases.

Other Word Forms

• serumal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of serum¹

1655–65; < Latin: whey

Word History and Origins

Origin of serum¹

C17: from Latin: whey

Example Sentences

South Korean serums are better-suited for her skin compared to some Western brands that tend to be more harsh, the 27-year-old graphic designer says.

From BBC

The watchdog also found the advert's suggestion that the magnesium in the drink could reduce serum cortisol levels breached the code.

From BBC

Describing President Trump as a "truth serum", Orban emphasised his vision of a new Europe, in what he calls "the Age of Patriots", based on the nation, the traditional family, and his version of Christianity.

From BBC

The playfulness kicks in when George and Kathryn invite the other suspects over for a dinner spiced with garlic and truth serum.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite questioning his decision to forgo taking a super-soldier serum to gain enhanced powers, Wilson saves the day because of his capacity for empathy and belief in other people’s ability to change.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• antibody