Gametes Meaning and Definition
Gametes
Pronunciation
/ˈgæmətiːz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A gamete is a reproductive cell, either sperm or egg, that fuses with another gamete to form a zygote, resulting in the creation of a new individual.
Etymology
The word “gamete” comes from the Greek word “γάμητες” (gamētes), meaning “married”, as gametes are produced by the process of gametogenesis, where diploid cells undergo meiosis to form haploid cells.
Usage Notes
In biology, gametes are a crucial part of the reproductive process, and understanding their structure, function, and behavior is essential for understanding genetics and inheritance.
Cultural References
Gametes have been referenced in science fiction and popular culture, often symbolizing the creation of new life or the fusion of two entities.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “The game of love and gametes” – a metaphor for the interconnectedness of relationships and reproduction.
Related Words or Phrases
- Reproductive cell
- Sperm
- Egg
- Zygote
Collocations
- Gametes fuse
- Gametes combine
- Gametes merge
Frequency of Use
Gametes are commonly used in scientific and technical contexts, making them a relatively frequent term in biology and medicine.
Common Misspellings
- Gameetes
- Gamatas
- Gamatais