precyst

noun

pre·​cyst
ˈprē+¦-
: a differentiated phase in many protozoans that lays down the resting cyst and is characterized by structural simplification and modified metabolic activities involving the increase of storage products and the termination of active feeding
precystic
(ˈ)prē+
adjective

Word History

Etymology

pre- + cyst

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near precyst

Cite this Entry

“Precyst.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/precyst. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!