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Unicellular: meaning, definitions and examples

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unicellular

 

[ ˌjuːnɪˈsɛlʊlə ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

biological description

Unicellular refers to organisms that consist of a single cell. These organisms carry out all the necessary functions of life within that one cell. They can be found in a variety of environments, including freshwater, saltwater, and even in the human body. Examples of unicellular organisms include bacteria, archaea, and many protists. Despite their simplicity, unicellular organisms play crucial roles in ecosystems and are important for processes such as decomposition and nitrogen fixation.

Synonyms

monadic, single-celled

Examples of usage

  • Bacteria are unicellular organisms that can thrive in extreme environments.
  • The study of unicellular life is critical for understanding the origins of multicellular organisms.
  • Many unicellular algae are essential for aquatic ecosystems.
  • Unicellular organisms can reproduce rapidly under favorable conditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "unicellular" in other languages:

🇵🇹 unicelular

🇮🇳 एककोशीय

🇩🇪 einzellig

🇮🇩 bersel satu

🇺🇦 одноклітинний

🇵🇱 jednokomórkowy

🇯🇵 単細胞の

🇫🇷 unicellulaire

🇪🇸 unicelular

🇹🇷 tek hücreli

🇰🇷 단세포의

🇸🇦 وحيد الخلية

🇨🇿 jednobuněčný

🇸🇰 jednobunkový

🇨🇳 单细胞的

🇸🇮 enocelični

🇮🇸 einkjarna

🇰🇿 жасушалық

🇬🇪 ერთუჯრედიანი

🇦🇿 təkhüceyrəli

🇲🇽 unicelular

Word origin

The term 'unicellular' is derived from the Latin prefix 'uni-', meaning 'one' or 'single,' combined with the word 'cellular,' which relates to the cell, the basic structural and functional unit of living organisms. The concept of unicellular organisms dates back to the discovery of single-celled entities such as bacteria in the 17th century. Microbiologists and naturalists began exploring these simple forms of life through the advent of the microscope. The classification of life into unicellular and multicellular organisms further developed during the 19th century as scientists began to understand the complexity and diversity of living organisms. Advances in cell biology in the 20th century have illuminated the intricate processes occurring within unicellular organisms, revealing their significance in ecology, evolution, and biotechnology.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,640, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.