Here's a breakdown:
* Phagocytosis comes from the Greek words "phagein" (to eat) and "kytos" (cell).
* It's a process where a cell engulfs a solid particle, forming a vesicle called a phagosome.
* This is a key process for immune cells like macrophages, which engulf bacteria, viruses, and cellular debris.
* It also plays a role in normal cellular function, like removing damaged cells and cellular waste.