Zygote - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A zygote is the single-celled organism formed when a sperm fertilizes an egg, marking the first stage of embryonic development in plants, animals, and humans.
Definition:
The initial cell formed when two gamete cells unite during fertilization.
Synonyms:
fertilized egg, embryo, germ cell
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
gamete, sperm, egg
Common Collocations:
human zygote, zygote formation, zygote development
Derivatives:
zygotic, zygotically
Usage Tips:
Use "zygote" to refer to the earliest stage of embryonic development after fertilization.
Common Phrases:
zygote stage, zygote division, fusion into a zygote
Etymology:
From Greek "zygōtos" (yoked), from "zygoun" (to yoke).
Examples:
- 1. The zygote forms when sperm and egg unite.
- 2. A single zygote contains genetic material from both parents.
- 3. The zygote divides rapidly to form an embryo.
- 4. Scientists study zygotes to understand early development.
- 5. In humans, the zygote implants in the uterus wall.