Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
zygote
noun
/ˈzaɪɡoʊt/
Definition
A zygote is the initial cell formed when a sperm cell unites with an egg cell during fertilization.
Examples
- The zygote undergoes several rounds of cell division to form an embryo.
- In humans, the zygote is formed within hours of fertilization.
- Researchers study zygotes to understand early developmental processes.
Meaning
The zygote represents the earliest stage of development of a multicellular organism, containing all the genetic material necessary for growth.
Synonyms
- embryo (in later stages)
- fertilized egg
