mitosis

mi·to·sis

noun \mī-ˈtō-səs\

plural mi·to·ses \-ˌsēz\

Definition of MITOSIS

1

: a process that takes place in the nucleus of a dividing cell, involves typically a series of steps consisting of prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, and results in the formation of two new nuclei each having the same number of chromosomes as the parent nucleus—compare meiosis

2

: cell division in which mitosis occurs

—mi·tot·ic \-ˈtät-ik\ adjective

—mi·tot·i·cal·ly \-i-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

Illustration of MITOSIS