phagocyte

/ˈfæɡəˌsaɪt/
noun
  1. A type of white blood cell that engulfs and destroys harmful microorganisms, dead cells, and debris in the body.
    • The immune system relies on phagocytes to clean up cellular waste.
    • When you get a cut, phagocytes rush to the area to fight off bacteria.
    • Scientists are studying how phagocytes recognize and attack invading germs.