Wordnet 3.0
NOUN (1)
1.
cell that functions in the breakdown and resorption of bone tissue;
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
osteoclast \os"te*o*clast\, n. [Osteo- + Gr. kla^n to break.]
1. (Physiol.) Same as myeloplax, a large multinucleate cell
within the bone, which functions in the absroption and
removal of bone tissue.
[1913 Webster +PJC]
Note: The osteoclasts occur usually in pits or cavities which
they appear to have excavated, and are supposed to be
concerned in the absorption of the bone matrix.
[1913 Webster]
2. An instrument for performing osteoclasis.
[1913 Webster]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
osteoclast
n 1: cell that functions in the breakdown and resorption of bone
tissue