Definition

Noun: A type of lipoprotein, a microscopic particle composed of proteins and lipids (fats), that carries cholesterol from other parts of the body back to the liver for processing or removal. It is characterized by a high proportion of protein relative to its cholesterol and lipid content. Elevated levels of this particle in the bloodstream are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Usage

"High-density lipoprotein" is a scientific and medical term. It is often used in discussions of blood tests, cholesterol levels, heart health, and cardiovascular risk factors. In common usage, it is frequently abbreviated as HDL.

Examples

• A standard blood lipid panel measures your levels of high-density lipoprotein.
• Regular exercise can help raise your high-density lipoprotein, the so-called "good" cholesterol.
• The doctor explained that a high level of high-density lipoprotein is beneficial for arterial health.

Advanced Usage

• "HDL cholesterol": This common phrase refers specifically to the cholesterol content being carried the high-density lipoprotein particle. It is often used interchangeably with the term "HDL" in medical contexts.
  • Your HDL cholesterol level is excellent.

Variants and Related Words

• HDL: The universal abbreviation for high-density lipoprotein.
  • My HDL is 65 mg/dL.
• Lipoprotein: The broader category of particles to which HDL belongs. Other types include low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL).
• Alpha-lipoprotein: An older, less common synonym for high-density lipoprotein.

Synonyms

• Good cholesterol: A common layperson's term for HDL, reflecting its protective role in cardiovascular health.
• HDL cholesterol: As noted above, this is a near-synonym in everyday medical language.

Related Phrases and Collocations

• HDL level: The measured concentration of HDL in the blood.
  • She has a high HDL level.
• High HDL: A phrase indicating a desirable, elevated concentration.
  • His high HDL offsets his elevated LDL.
• HDL particle: Emphasizes the physical nature of the lipoprotein.
  • The function of the HDL particle is reverse cholesterol transport.

Noun

1. a lipoprotein that transports cholesterol in the blood; composed of a high proportion of protein and relatively little cholesterol; high levels are thought to be associated with decreased risk of coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis