What does the suffix '-phage' imply in medical terminology?

The suffix '-phage' originates from the Greek word 'phagein,' which means 'to eat.' In medical terminology, this suffix is commonly used to describe cells or organisms that consume or destroy other cells or substances. For instance, in the term 'macrophage,' it refers to a type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris and pathogens. This use of '-phage' highlights the action of eating or consuming, making it a crucial component in various biological and medical contexts where the process of ingestion or destruction of material is discussed. Understanding this suffix helps clarify the function of specific cells and organisms in the body, particularly in immunology and microbiology.