SPERMATOZOIDS Meaning and
Definition
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Spermatozoids, also known as sperm cells or spermatozoa, are the male reproductive cells or gametes found in most animals and certain plants. These highly specialized cells are essential for sexual reproduction as they are responsible for fertilizing the female egg, initiating the process of development and creating offspring.
In animals, spermatozoids are formed through a process called spermatogenesis, which occurs in the testes. They are typically microscopic in size, consisting of a head, middle piece, and tail. The head contains the nucleus which carries the genetic material, while the middle piece consists of mitochondria providing energy for the motility of the spermatozoid. The long and slender tail allows them to swim and navigate towards the female reproductive system.
Spermatozoids possess remarkable mobility, propelled by the rhythmic beating of the tail. This enables them to efficiently navigate through the female reproductive tract towards the egg. Only a small fraction of the millions of sperm cells released during ejaculation reach the vicinity of the egg, as they encounter various barriers and obstacles within the female reproductive system.
Upon reaching the egg, a spermatozoid attaches to the egg's outer layer and releases enzymes to break through, allowing the fusion of genetic material from both the sperm and the egg. This process, known as fertilization, leads to the formation of a zygote, which eventually develops into a new organism.
Overall, spermatozoids play a crucial role in sexual reproduction and are vital for continuing the survival and diversity of species.
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In anat., same as spermatozoa; in bot., moving filaments contained in the antheridia of cryptogams.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SPERMATOZOIDS
- apermatozoids
- zpermatozoids
- xpermatozoids
- dpermatozoids
- epermatozoids
- wpermatozoids
- soermatozoids
- slermatozoids
- s-ermatozoids
- s0ermatozoids
- spwrmatozoids
- spsrmatozoids
- spdrmatozoids
- sprrmatozoids
- sp4rmatozoids
- sp3rmatozoids
- speematozoids
- spedmatozoids
- spefmatozoids
- spetmatozoids
Etymology of SPERMATOZOIDS
The word "spermatozoid" is derived from two separate terms: "sperma" and "zooid".
The term "sperma" comes from the Greek word "sperma" (σπέρμα), meaning "seed". In ancient Greek, "sperma" referred to the male reproductive fluid or semen.
The term "zooid" comes from the Greek word "zōion" (ζῷον), meaning "animal" or "living being". Adding the "-oid" suffix to "zooid" indicates a resemblance to an animal or organism.
When combined, "sperma" and "zooid" create "spermatozoid", which refers to the motile, male reproductive cells found in the semen or reproductive fluids of many organisms, including humans.
Similar spelling words for SPERMATOZOIDS
- spermatozoon,
- spermatozoid,
- spermaceti,
- spermatocyte,
- spermatophyta,
- spermatocele,
- spermatophyte,
- spermatozoan,
- spermatocide,
- spermatic cord,
- spermatogenesis.
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