micronucleus

noun

mi·cro·nu·cle·us ˌmī-krō-ˈnü-klē-əs

-ˈnyü-

: a minute nucleus

specifically : one that is primarily concerned with reproductive and genetic functions in most ciliated protozoans

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of micronucleus was in 1887

See more words from the same year

Style

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

Copy Citation

micronucleus

noun

mi·cro·nu·cle·us ˌmī-krō-ˈn(y)ü-klē-əs

: a minute nucleus

specifically : one regarded as primarily concerned with reproductive and genetic functions in most ciliated protozoans compare macronucleus

Get Word of the Day daily email!