Gamete Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งฌ
gamete
[หษกรฆmiหt ]
Definitions
biology
A gamete is a mature sexual reproductive cell, such as a sperm or egg, that unites with another cell to form a new organism.
Synonyms
reproductive cell, sex cell.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gamete |
Scientific discussions, particularly in genetics and biology, where the focus is on the cells involved in sexual reproduction.
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| reproductive cell |
General contexts, such as biology textbooks or educational materials, where the aim is to explain the concept of cells involved in reproduction without using highly technical language.
|
| sex cell |
Informal contexts, such as casual conversations or simpler educational content, where there's a need to explain concepts in a less technical manner.
|
Examples of usage
- The fusion of two gametes results in the formation of a zygote.
- Gametes are produced through a process called meiosis.
biology
In plants, a gamete is a haploid reproductive cell that combines with another haploid cell during fertilization.
Synonyms
plant reproductive cell, pollen grain.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gamete |
Scientific discussions, particularly in biology or genetics, where the focus is on the basic reproductive cells involved in sexual reproduction.
|
| plant reproductive cell |
General contexts or educational settings where a simpler and more descriptive term is needed to explain the concept of reproductive cells in plants.
|
| pollen grain |
Botanical discussions or contexts concerning the reproduction of flowering plants, particularly when discussing the male reproductive component.
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Examples of usage
- The gametes of flowering plants are typically found in the pollen and ovule.
- Gametes in plants are often produced in specialized structures called gametangia.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- Gametes are classified into two types: sperm (male) and eggs (female), each playing a vital role in reproduction.
- Humans typically have 23 pairs of chromosomes, with gametes carrying just one chromosome from each pair to ensure genetic diversity.
History of Science
- In the mid-1800s, the study of gametes advanced rapidly, leading to key discoveries in genetics and hereditary traits.
- The understanding of fertilization involving gametes paved the way for modern reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization.
Pop Culture
- Films often explore themes of love and reproduction, but few focus on the science behind gametes that make life possible.
- In video games, the concept of 'gametes' isn't directly referenced, but the idea of characters or 'entities' combining to create new ones can parallel this biological process.
Psychology
- The understanding of gametes and reproduction influences societal views on family planning and reproductive rights.
- Research into gamete biology can evoke various emotional reactions, especially in discussions around fertility and the desire for children.
Origin of 'gamete'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Greek term 'gametes', meaning 'husband' or 'to marry', highlighting the joining of two cells.
- It first appeared in English in the mid-19th century as scientists began to understand reproduction more deeply.
The term 'gamete' originated from the Greek word 'gamein', meaning 'to marry'. It was first introduced in the late 19th century to describe the specialized cells involved in sexual reproduction. The study of gametes has been fundamental to our understanding of genetics and inheritance.