Definition

Noun: A blood type classification in which the red blood cells do not possess the Rh factor (also known as the Rhesus or D antigen). This is one of the two primary categories within the Rh blood group system, the other being Rh positive.

Usage

The term is used to describe a person's blood type and is a critical factor in medical contexts, particularly for blood transfusions and pregnancy care. - It is often written with a hyphen: Rh-negative. - It is commonly paired with the ABO blood type (e.g., O negative, AB negative).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The patient has a rare blood type; she is AB Rh negative.
  • During her first prenatal visit, the doctor confirmed she was Rh negative.
  • The blood bank has a shortage of Rh negative blood for emergencies.

Advanced Usage

• "Rh negative disease" / "Rh incompatibility": A condition that can occur when an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive baby, potentially leading to health issues for the baby if not managed.
  • The obstetrician monitored the pregnancy closely due to the risk of Rh incompatibility.

Variants and Related Words

• Rh factor (noun): The antigen (protein) present on the surface of red blood cells that determines Rh status.
• Rh positive (noun): The blood group whose red cells possess the Rh factor.
• Rhesus factor (noun): Another term for the Rh factor.
• Rh immunoglobulin (RhIg) (noun): A medication given to Rh-negative mothers to prevent Rh incompatibility.

Synonyms

• Rh-: A common abbreviated form (e.g., "Her blood type is O Rh-").
• Rhesus negative: A less common, full synonym.

Related Phrases

• "to be Rh negative": The standard phrase to state one's blood type.
  • All donors in this drive are required to be Rh negative.
• "Rh negative status": A more formal way to refer to the condition.
  • Her Rh negative status was noted in her medical records.

Noun

1. the blood group whose red cells lack the Rh factor (Rh antigen)