Biol. any of various small reproductive bodies, usually consisting of a single cell, produced by bacteria, algae, mosses, ferns, certain protozoans, etc., either asexually () or by the union of gametes (): they are capable of giving rise to a new adult individual, either immediately or after an interval of dormancy
any small organism or cell that can develop into a new individual; seed, germ, etc.
A small, usually single-celled reproductive body that is highly resistant to desiccation and heat and is capable of growing into a new organism, produced especially by certain bacteria, fungi, algae, and nonflowering plants.
A dormant nonreproductive body formed by certain bacteria in response to adverse environmental conditions.