protoplast

noun

pro·​to·​plast ˈprō-tə-ˌplast How to pronounce protoplast (audio)
1
: one that is formed first : prototype
2
: a plant cell that has had its cell wall removed
also : the nucleus, cytoplasm, and plasma membrane of a cell as distinguished from inert walls and inclusions

Examples of protoplast in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Moisturize with Shiseido Waso Clear Mega-Hydrating Cream, made with whole carrot protoplasts (what's left of the cell when its wall dissolves). Maya McDowell, Seventeen, 21 May 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'protoplast.' 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

Middle French protoplaste, from Late Latin protoplastus first human, from Greek prōtoplastos first formed, from prōt- prot- + plastos formed, from plassein to mold — more at plaster

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of protoplast was in 1532

Dictionary Entries Near protoplast

Cite this Entry

“Protoplast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/protoplast. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

protoplast

noun
pro·​to·​plast ˈprōt-ə-ˌplast How to pronounce protoplast (audio)
: the nucleus, cytoplasm, and plasma membrane of a cell as distinguished from inert walls and inclusions

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