zygote

noun

zy·​gote ˈzī-ˌgōt 

: a cell formed by the union of two gametes

broadly : the developing individual produced from such a cell

zygotic

zī-ˈgä-tik 

adjective

Examples of zygote in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The zygote matures into an embryo, and the embryo develops into a fetus.7 While human body cells have 46 chromosomes, sperm cells have 23 chromosomes. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 19 Sep. 2024

The zygote splits into two parts after conception, resulting in the development of two individual embryos. —Pamela Prindle Fierro, Parents, 1 July 2024

The genetic instructions that drive the transformation of a single zygote into a living body are strikingly similar in our two species. —Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2024

Feinberg says the ruling could potentially also make offering IVF too costly for providers, who might have to pay more for malpractice insurance in states where zygotes are considered people. —Maria Godoy, NPR, 23 Feb. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Greek zygōtos yoked, from zygoun to join — more at zygoma

First Known Use

circa 1887, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing zygote

• zygote intrafallopian transfer

Rhymes for zygote

• heterozygote

Kids Definition

zygote

noun

zy·​gote ˈzī-ˌgōt 

: a cell formed by the union of two sex cells

also : the developing individual produced from such a cell

zygotic

zī-ˈgät-ik 

adjective

Medical Definition

zygote

noun

zy·​gote ˈzī-ˌgōt 

: a cell formed by the union of two gametes

broadly : the developing individual produced from such a cell