gametocyte

noun

ga·​me·​to·​cyte gə-ˈmē-tə-ˌsīt How to pronounce gametocyte (audio)
: a cell (as of a protozoan causing malaria) that divides to produce gametes

Examples of gametocyte in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Most malaria drugs do not target gametocytes, meaning that someone may still spread the disease for a week or more after treatment. Donald G. McNeil Jr., New York Times, 9 Feb. 2018

Word History

Etymology

gameto- + -cyte

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gametocyte was in 1899

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Cite this Entry

“Gametocyte.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gametocyte. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

gametocyte

noun
ga·​me·​to·​cyte gə-ˈmēt-ə-ˌsīt How to pronounce gametocyte (audio)
: a cell (as of a protozoan causing malaria) that divides to produce gametes
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