What is the meaning of the root "agglutin/o"?

The root "agglutin/o" is derived from the Latin term "agglutinare," which means to glue together or stick. In medical terminology, it specifically refers to the process of clumping or sticking together, particularly in the context of cells or particles, such as in blood agglutination where antibodies cause bacteria or red blood cells to clump. This concept is crucial in immunology and transfusion medicine, where the clumping of blood cells can have significant implications for compatibility and immune response. Therefore, the meaning of "agglutin/o" as clumping aligns perfectly with its usage in medical contexts.