Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
oocyte
Noun
/ˈoʊəˌsaɪt/
Definition
An oocyte is a female gamete or reproductive cell involved in sexual reproduction.
Examples
- The development of an oocyte occurs in the ovaries of females.
- In humans, each menstrual cycle may lead to the maturation of one oocyte.
Meaning
Oocytes are essential for the process of fertilization, where a sperm cell combines with an oocyte to form a zygote, which can develop into an embryo.
Synonyms
- Egg cell
- Female gamete
- Ovum
