Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

somatic cell

noun
/səˈmætɪk sɛl/
Definition
A somatic cell is any cell in the body that is not a reproductive cell.
Examples
  • Skin cells are a type of somatic cell that help protect the body.
  • Somatic cells undergo mitosis, which is important for growth and repairing tissues.
Meaning
Somatic cells make up most of the body’s tissues and organs, excluding the germ cells which are involved in reproduction.
Synonyms
  • Body cell
  • Non-reproductive cell