trichocyst

noun

tricho·​cyst ˈtri-kə-ˌsist 

: any of the minute lassoing or stinging organelles of protozoans and especially of many ciliates

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

trichocyst

noun

tricho·​cyst ˈtrik-ə-ˌsist 

: any of the minute projectile organs that release adhesive threads when discharged and that occur on the body of protozoans and especially of many ciliates