gemmule

(jemyo̵̅o̅l′)

noun

Biol. a bud of a moss or a reproductive body of an alga or of certain sponges; small gemma

Origin: Fr < L gemmula, dim. of gemma, a bud: see gem

See gemmule in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. A small gemma or similar structure, especially a reproductive structure in some sponges that remains dormant through the winter and later develops into a new individual.
  2. A hypothetical particle of heredity postulated to be the mediating factor in the production of new cells in the theory of pangenesis.

Origin:

Origin: French

Origin: , from Latin gemmula

Origin: , diminutive of gemma, bud; see gembh- in Indo-European roots

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Related Forms:

  • gemˌmu·lifˈer·ous (jĕmˌyo͞o-lĭfˈər-əs) adjective

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