| any of various classes into which human blood can be divided according to immunological compatibility, based on the presence or absence of specific antigens on red blood cells. |
| blood group n. Any of several immunologically distinct, genetically determined classes of human blood that are based on the presence or absence of certain antigens and are clinically identified by characteristic agglutination reactions. Also called blood type. |
| blood type n. See blood group. |
One of many groups into which a person's blood can be categorized, based on the presence or absence of specific antigens in the blood. Blood type is inherited.
Note: Blood transfusions can be given only between donors and recipients who have compatible types; if the types are not compatible, the blood of the recipient forms antibodies against the blood of the donor. There are four basic groupings — A, B, AB, and O — and within these groupings, the Rh factor may be present or absent.
blood group n.
Any of several immunologically distinct, genetically determined classes of human blood that are based on the presence or absence of certain antigens, are clinically identified by characteristic agglutination reactions, and are important with respect to blood transfusions and organ transplantation.
Blood type.
blood type n.
The specific reaction pattern of red blood cells of an individual to the antisera of one blood group as, for example, of the ABO blood group, which consists of four major blood types, O, A, B, and AB.
Blood group.
blood type
classification of blood based on inherited differences (polymorphisms) in antigens on the surfaces of the red blood cells (erythrocytes). Inherited differences of white blood cells (leukocytes), platelets (thrombocytes), and plasma proteins also constitute blood groups, but they are not included in this discussion.
Learn more about blood type with a free trial on Britannica.com.
