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Zygotic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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zygotic

[zaษชหˆษกษ’tษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

biological development

Zygotic refers to anything that is related to a zygote, which is the initial cell formed when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg cell. This is the first stage of development for many organisms, including plants and animals. The zygote undergoes multiple cell divisions and differentiations to develop into a multicellular organism. In some contexts, zygotic may also pertain to the characteristics or properties of the zygote itself, impacting how the organism will develop.

Synonyms

embryonic, initial, pre-embryonic.

Examples of usage

  • The zygotic phase is crucial for embryonic development.
  • Researchers studied the zygotic genome to understand genetic traits.
  • Zygotic fusion can lead to hybrid organisms.
  • The zygotic stage occurs immediately after fertilization.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In humans, a zygote is formed within 24 hours of fertilization and undergoes rapid division to become an embryo.
  • The zygotic stage lasts only a few days, where the single cell divides multiple times before implanting in the uterus.

Developmental Biology

  • During the zygotic stage, cells are totipotent, meaning they have the potential to develop into any cell type or even a complete organism.
  • Zygotic development is crucial for understanding genetic inheritance, as the zygote contains DNA from both parents.

Cultural References

  • The zygotic stage is often referenced in discussions about cloning and assisted reproductive technologies, such as in-vitro fertilization.
  • In art and literature, themes of beginnings and the merging of life often metaphorically reference the zygotic stage to symbolize creation and potential.

Psychology

  • The concept of beginnings, similar to the zygotic stage, is often explored in psychology to discuss human development and emotional attachment.
  • Understanding the zygotic phase can help in appreciating the importance of early environments on later personality development.

Origin of 'zygotic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'zygotic' comes from the Greek word 'zygon,' meaning 'yoke' or 'to join,' reflecting the joining of two cells.
  • It was first used in the field of biology in the 19th century to describe early developmental stages in organisms.

The term 'zygotic' is derived from the word 'zygote,' which comes from the Greek word 'zugon,' meaning 'yoke,' reflecting the joining of two gametes (sperm and egg) during fertilization. The concept of the zygote has been studied since the 19th century when early embryology began to unfold. As science advanced, particularly through the development of genetics, the understanding of the zygote's role in the continuum of development became pivotal. The term 'zygotic' has been used in various fields, including biology, genetics, and embryology, to describe processes and phenomena connected to this crucial developmental stage. Its usage highlights the importance of cellular processes in the early stages of life.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,579, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.