zygote

noun

zy·​gote ˈzī-ˌgōt How to pronounce zygote (audio)
: a cell formed by the union of two gametes
broadly : the developing individual produced from such a cell
zygotic adjective

Examples of zygote in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The zygote matures into an embryo, and the embryo develops into a fetus.7 While human body cells have 46 chromosomes, sperm cells have 23 chromosomes. Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 19 Sep. 2024 The zygote splits into two parts after conception, resulting in the development of two individual embryos. Pamela Prindle Fierro, Parents, 1 July 2024 The genetic instructions that drive the transformation of a single zygote into a living body are strikingly similar in our two species. Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2024 Feinberg says the ruling could potentially also make offering IVF too costly for providers, who might have to pay more for malpractice insurance in states where zygotes are considered people. Maria Godoy, NPR, 23 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for zygote 

Word History

Etymology

Greek zygōtos yoked, from zygoun to join — more at zygoma

First Known Use

circa 1887, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zygote was circa 1887

Cite this Entry

“Zygote.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zygote. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

zygote

noun
zy·​gote ˈzī-ˌgōt How to pronounce zygote (audio)
: a cell formed by the union of two sex cells
also : the developing individual produced from such a cell
zygotic adjective

Medical Definition

zygote

noun
zy·​gote ˈzī-ˌgōt How to pronounce zygote (audio)
: a cell formed by the union of two gametes
broadly : the developing individual produced from such a cell

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