Dictionary
ly•sis
Pronunciation: (lī'sis), [key]—
n.
1. Immunol., Biochem.the dissolution or destruction of cells by lysins.
2. Med.the gradual recession of a disease. Cf.
crisis (def. 4).
-lysis
a combining form with the meaning “breaking down, loosening, decomposition,” used in the formation of compound words:
analysis; electrolysis; paralysis. Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.