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Encystment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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encystment

[ษชnหˆsษชstmษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological process

Encystment is a process by which certain microorganisms or parasites develop a protective cyst or capsule around themselves to survive harsh environmental conditions. This adaptation allows them to endure periods of dormancy and resist unfavorable factors such as desiccation, temperature extremes, or lack of nutrients.

Synonyms

capsulation, cyst formation.

Examples of usage

  • Many protozoa undergo encystment to survive in dry environments.
  • The encystment of parasites in host tissues can complicate treatment.
  • Encystment helps organisms survive in extreme habitats.

Translations

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Origin of 'encystment'

The term 'encystment' has its roots in the word 'cyst', which comes from the Greek word 'kystis' meaning 'bladder' or 'sac'. The addition of the prefix 'en-' signifies the process of forming or developing a cyst. The word's usage dates back to the 19th century, when advances in microbiology and parasitology prompted the need for specific terminology related to the life cycles of microorganisms and parasites. As researchers began to study the survival strategies of these organisms, they observed the formation of protective structures, leading to the adoption of the term 'encystment' to describe this vital adaptation. This process is critical in understanding the biology of various pathogens and their mechanisms of survival outside their hosts.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,773, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.