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Vacuole Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vacuole

[หˆvรฆkjสŠoสŠl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cell biology

A vacuole is a membrane-bound organelle found in the cytoplasm of plant and fungal cells, and sometimes in animal cells. These organelles are primarily used for storage, waste disposal, and maintaining turgor pressure in plant cells. Vacuoles can contain various substances such as nutrients, waste products, or even decorative pigments. They are essential for cell homeostasis and play a vital role in the life of the cell by storing materials and regulating cellular processes.

Synonyms

sac, storage body, vesicle.

Examples of usage

  • The vacuole in the plant cell holds excess water.
  • In some cases, vacuoles can store toxic substances to protect the cell.
  • The breakdown of waste products occurs in the vacuole.
  • Vacuoles help maintain the shape and rigidity of plant cells.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • In plant cells, vacuoles can take up to 90% of the cell's volume, storing essential nutrients and water.
  • In single-celled organisms, vacuoles help manage waste and maintain internal pressure, which is vital for survival.

Significance in Health

  • Vacuoles play a role in detoxifying harmful substances in cells, acting as a storage site for waste products.
  • Some vacuoles in animal cells can store fat and help regulate energy stores in the body.

Pop Culture

  • Vacuoles have inspired various educational games and apps that teach kids about cell structure in a fun and interactive way.
  • The idea of 'empty' spaces in biology is often used in metaphors in literature and speeches about potential and growth.

Ecology

  • In ecology, vacuoles help plant cells to maintain turgor pressure, crucial for plants to remain upright and healthy.
  • Changes in vacuole function can impact how plants react to stressors like drought or salinity.

Origin of 'vacuole'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'vacuus', meaning 'empty', highlighting the vacuole's role as a storage space.
  • First used in scientific literature in the mid-19th century, the word added a new understanding to cell biology.

The term 'vacuole' originates from the Latin word 'vacuus', which means 'empty'. The term was first used in the 19th century as researchers began to understand the cellular structures within plants and animals. As microscopy advanced, scientists discovered that these cell compartments were not only prevalent in plant cells but also existed in fungal and certain animal cells. Initially, vacuoles were thought to be simply storage spaces, but later studies revealed their complex roles in cell metabolism, waste management, and maintaining the integrity of the cell's environment. Over time, the understanding of vacuoles has expanded to include their involvement in cellular signaling and other biological processes, highlighting their importance in cellular functions.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,494, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.