Spermatozoa - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Spermatozoa are the male reproductive cells, or gametes, essential for fertilization. They are motile, typically with a tail for movement, and combine with female eggs to form embryos.
Definition:
Mature male reproductive cells capable of fertilizing an ovum.
Synonyms:
sperm, gametes, seed, male germ cells
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
ova, egg cells
Common Collocations:
spermatozoa count, spermatozoa motility, spermatozoa morphology
Derivatives:
spermatozoal, spermatozoan
Usage Tips:
Use "spermatozoa" in scientific contexts; "sperm" is more common in everyday language.
Common Phrases:
swimming spermatozoa, healthy spermatozoa, spermatozoa production
Etymology:
From Greek "sperma" (seed) and "zōion" (animal), meaning "seed animals."
Examples:
- 1. The microscope revealed active spermatozoa.
- 2. Spermatozoa must swim to reach the egg for fertilization.
- 3. A high spermatozoa count increases fertility chances.
- 4. Scientists study spermatozoa motility in fertility research.