Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Ovum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🥚
Add to dictionary

ovum

[ˈəʊvəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

reproductive biology

The female reproductive cell, produced by the ovary, which unites with the male sperm to form a zygote.

Synonyms

egg, female reproductive cell.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
ovum

Primarily used in scientific or medical contexts when discussing female reproductive cells. It is more formal and specific.

  • The ovum is released from the ovary during ovulation.
  • Fertilization occurs when a sperm cell successfully merges with an ovum.
egg

Used in everyday language and informal contexts. In biological discussions, it can also refer to the reproductive cell, but it is more commonly associated with the idea of a whole egg, as in the food item.

  • Chickens lay eggs daily.
  • A woman carries about 1-2 million eggs in her ovaries from birth.
female reproductive cell

Used in educational or explanatory contexts to describe the ovum clearly, especially for audiences that may not be familiar with scientific terminology.

  • The female reproductive cell is essential for sexual reproduction.
  • In human biology, the female reproductive cell merges with a male sperm cell to begin the process of fertilization.

Examples of usage

  • The ovum is released from the ovary during ovulation.
  • After fertilization, the ovum develops into an embryo.
  • She had her ovum frozen for future use.

Translations

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

Origin of 'ovum'

The word 'ovum' comes from Latin, where it means 'egg'. The term has been used in biological contexts since the 18th century to refer to the female reproductive cell. The study of ova and fertilization has been crucial in understanding reproduction and genetics.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,864, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.