Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

zyg

Prefix

/zɪɡ/

Definition

A prefix used in biological terms that refers to pairs or union, often indicating a connection or combination, particularly in genetics.

Examples

Zygote: The fertilized egg formed by the union of a sperm and an ovum.
Zygomorphic: Referring to flowers that can be divided into equal halves along one plane only.
Meiotic zygote: The cell resulting from the fusion of gametes during meiosis.

Meaning

The term ‘zyg’ originates from the Greek word ‘zygon’ meaning ‘yoke’ or ‘pair’. It is often associated with the formation of zygotes, which are the initial cell formed when two gametes unite during fertilization.