in vitro

adverb or adjective

in vi·​tro in-ˈvē-(ˌ)trō  -ˈvi- 

-ˈwē-

: outside the living body and in an artificial environment

Examples of in vitro in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The research that does exist is largely based on animal studies and in vitro studies (outside the body, such as in a petri dish).3 Boldo contains antioxidants.4 Antioxidants help prevent oxidative stress and damage to cells that can lead to health problems. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 15 Jan. 2025

Previous research has shown that some cells present during very early development can act as organizers or signalers for in vitro embryos. —New Atlas, 26 Dec. 2024

Its impact on humans is not yet well understood, with only a small number of in vitro studies (experiments carried out on individual cells or molecules in glass containers) in existence. —Laurie Winkless, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

Johnson is also credited for stripping out an expansion of coverage for in vitro fertilization treatment under the military’s healthcare program, known as Tricare. —Ramsey Touchberry, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 18 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, literally, in glass

First Known Use

circa 1894, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

in vitro

adverb or adjective

in vi·​tro in-ˈvē-(ˌ)trō 

: outside the living body and in an artificial environment

an egg fertilized in vitro

Etymology

Latin, literally, "in glass"

Medical Definition

in vitro

adverb or adjective

in vi·​tro in-ˈvē-(ˌ)trō  -ˈvi- 

: outside the living body and in an artificial environment

growth of cells in vitro

in vitro studies