alloplasm

noun

al·​lo·​plasm
plural -s
: differentiated active protoplasm (as myofibrils, tonofibrils, and cilia)
also : certain protoplasmic derivatives (as cell walls or intercellular substances)
alloplasmatic
-ˌplaz¦matik
adjective
alloplasmic
¦⸗⸗¦plazmik
adjective

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary all- + -plasm; probably back-formation from alloplasmatic, from all- + plasmatic; originally formed as German alloplasmatisch

First Known Use

circa 1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alloplasm was circa 1939

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near alloplasm

Cite this Entry

“Alloplasm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alloplasm. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!