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nematocyst

(nem′ə tō sist′)

noun

any of the intracellular stinging structures characteristic of all cnidarians, as the jellyfish: it contains a threadlike sting

Origin: nemato- + -cyst

Related Forms:

nematocystic adjective

See nematocyst in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A capsule within specialized cells of certain coelenterates, such as jellyfish, containing a barbed, threadlike tube that delivers a paralyzing sting when propelled into attackers and prey. Also called stinging cell.

Related Forms:

nemˌa·to·cysˈtic adjective

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