melanoblast

noun

me·​la·​no·​blast mə-ˈla-nə-ˌblast How to pronounce melanoblast (audio)
ˈme-lə-nō-
: a cell that is a precursor of a melanocyte or melanophore

Examples of melanoblast in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Normally, a specific group of cells in developing chickens’ systems use EDN3 to guide the migration of color-creating melanoblasts, but in hyperpigmented breeds, almost all of the chickens’ cells express EDN3. Meilan Solly, Smithsonian, 20 Sep. 2019 And when a normal chicken is developing, certain cells, like those in the skin and feather follicles, express EDN3, which triggers the migration of melanoblasts, or the cells that go on to create color. Jason Bittel, National Geographic, 16 Sep. 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'melanoblast.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Melanoblast, from melano- melano- + -blast -blast

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of melanoblast was in 1901

Dictionary Entries Near melanoblast

Cite this Entry

“Melanoblast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/melanoblast. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

melanoblast

noun
me·​la·​no·​blast mə-ˈlan-ə-ˌblast How to pronounce melanoblast (audio) ˈmel-ə-nō- How to pronounce melanoblast (audio)
: a cell that is a precursor of a melanocyte or melanophore
melanoblastic adjective
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