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Zygote Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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zygote

[หˆzaษชษกษ™สŠt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biology

A zygote is a cell that forms when two gamete cells are joined together during fertilization. It is the initial cell that results from the fusion of gametes and has the potential to develop into a new organism.

Synonyms

embryo, fertilized egg.

Examples of usage

  • The zygote undergoes cell division to form an embryo.
  • Once the zygote is formed, it begins the process of cell differentiation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • A zygote undergoes cell division quickly through a process called mitosis, developing into an embryo.
  • The zygote's development is crucial as it carries genetic information from both parents, which influences traits of the future offspring.

Reproductive Science

  • Zygotes can be formed naturally or artificially, such as in in-vitro fertilization (IVF), where an egg and sperm combine outside the body.
  • Research in zygotes has helped scientists understand genetic disorders and early stages of human development.

History

  • Early theories about reproduction involved misconceptions about how zygotes formed until advancements in microscopy clarified cellular processes.
  • In the 20th century, the discovery of DNA and genetic structure gave profound insights into how traits are inherited from zygotes.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the formation of a zygote is viewed as the beginning of life, raising ethical discussions about early developmental stages.
  • Artwork and literature often symbolize the concept of a zygote as a representation of new beginnings and potential.

Origin of 'zygote'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'zygon', meaning 'a yoke', referencing how two cells come together to form one.
  • It was first used in the scientific context in the late 19th century when biology began to explore cell development.

The term 'zygote' comes from the Greek word 'zugลtรณs' which means 'yoked' or 'joined'. The concept of the zygote was first introduced by the Austrian biologist Gregor Mendel in the 19th century. Mendel's work on genetics and inheritance laid the foundation for our understanding of how traits are passed from one generation to the next. The zygote plays a crucial role in the development of all multicellular organisms, as it is the starting point for the growth and differentiation of cells into specialized tissues and organs.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,018, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.