The name "white blood cell " derives from the physical appearance of a blood sample after centrifugation. White cells are found in the buffy coat, a thin, typically white layer of nucleated cells between the sedimented red blood cells and the blood plasma. WBC stands for White Blood Cell, also known as Leukocytes, which are immune cells that protect the body from infections and diseases. Learn about the five types of WBC , their functions, and how they are formed in the bone marrow. WBCs are essential components of immune system as they play a crucial role in protecting the body from infections and diseases by circulating through the bloodstream and tissues to respond injury or illness. They are colorless cells that have a round shape with a distinct nucleus. In health and biology, the full form "WBC" is commonly seen in medical reports, school textbooks, and scientific discussions. White blood cells are key indicators of immune system health and are routinely measured as part of a Complete Blood Count (CBC) in diagnostic tests.