Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a significant role in the body's immune response, particularly in combating parasitic infections and participating in allergic reactions. They are characterized by their bilobed nuclei and abundant eosinophilic granules in their cytoplasm, which stain brightly with eosin. Eosinophils can be identified in blood smears and tissue sections based on their distinctive staining properties.