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Embryonic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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embryonic

[ˌɛmbrɪˈɒnɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

development

Relating to an embryo or the early stages of development.

Synonyms

incipient, nascent, undeveloped.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
embryonic

Used to describe something in its very early stages of development, often before it has taken a clear shape or form.

  • The project is still in an embryonic stage.
  • Her ideas were embryonic and needed further refinement.
undeveloped

Refers to something that has not been fully developed or grown. May have a negative connotation when describing something that is expected to be more advanced.

  • The country's infrastructure remains largely undeveloped.
  • His ideas were interesting but undeveloped.
nascent

Describes something that is just coming into existence and beginning to display signs of future potential. Often used to convey a sense of hope or importance.

  • The nascent technology holds great promise.
  • There is a nascent movement for reform in the industry.
incipient

Typically used to denote something that is beginning to develop or appear, often with an implication of potential. Suitable in both positive and negative contexts.

  • They managed to quell the incipient rebellion.
  • She recognized the incipient signs of a cold.

Examples of usage

  • The embryonic stage of a butterfly is fascinating to observe.
  • Embryonic stem cells have the potential to develop into any type of cell in the body.
Context #2 | Adjective

beginning

In an early stage of development or evolution.

Synonyms

incipient, primitive, rudimentary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
embryonic

Typically used to describe something in its very early stages of development, like a project or idea that is just beginning to form.

  • Their business plan is still in an embryonic stage
  • The technology is in an embryonic phase
rudimentary

Describes something basic or not fully developed, often used to discuss basic knowledge, skills, or technology.

  • She has a rudimentary understanding of French
  • The workshop covered the rudimentary principles of mechanics
primitive

Implying something early or simple, often used to describe early human societies, technology, or tools. Can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation, implying simplicity or crudeness.

  • They found primitive tools at the archaeological site
  • The technology seems quite primitive by today's standards
incipient

Used when referring to something in its initial stages, often with the implication that it is starting to become noticeable or significant.

  • The patient showed incipient signs of the disease
  • The incipient tension between the colleagues was evident

Examples of usage

  • The company is in the embryonic phase and has a long way to go before it becomes successful.
  • Her idea for the novel was still in its embryonic form.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • In humans, the embryonic stage lasts from conception until about the eighth week of pregnancy.
  • During this time, the foundations for all major organs and systems in the body are formed.
  • Embryonic cells are often used in research to study diseases and treatments due to their ability to develop into various cell types.

Technology

  • Stem cell research often utilizes embryonic stem cells since they can adapt to become any type of cell in the body.
  • Embryonic development is studied using advanced technology like 3D imaging to see how embryos grow.

Philosophy

  • Debates about the moral status of embryos can involve ethical questions regarding when life begins.
  • Philosophers often discuss the implications of embryonic development in conversations about autonomy and rights.

Art and Literature

  • The concept of 'embryonic' is often used metaphorically in literature, representing beginnings or potential.
  • Artists may depict embryonic forms to explore themes of growth, potential, and transformation in their work.

Origin of 'embryonic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'embruon', meaning 'fetus' or 'developmental form'.
  • It entered the English language in the early 17th century originally referring to both animal and plant development.

The word 'embryonic' originated in the mid-18th century from the Latin word 'embryonicus', which in turn comes from the Greek word 'embruon', meaning 'young one'. The term was initially used in the field of embryology to describe the early stages of development in organisms. Over time, 'embryonic' has come to be used more broadly to refer to anything in an early or undeveloped stage.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,618, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.