gemmule

[ jem-yool ]

noun

1. Botany. gemma ( def 2 ).
2. Zoology. an asexually produced mass of cells that is capable of developing into an animal, as a freshwater sponge.
3. Evolution. one of the hypothetical living units conceived by Darwin in the theory of pangenesis as the bearers of the hereditary attributes.

gemmule

/ ˈdʒɛmjuːl /

noun

1. zoology a cell or mass of cells produced asexually by sponges and developing into a new individual; bud
2. botany a small gemma
3. a small hereditary particle postulated by Darwin in his theory of pangenesis

gemmule

/ jĕm′yo̅o̅l /

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gemmule¹

1835–45; < French < Latin gemmula. See gemma, -ule

Word History and Origins

Origin of gemmule¹

C19: from French, from Latin gemmula a little bud; see gem

Example Sentences

In 1883, with rather grim determination, the German embryologist August Weismann had performed an experiment that directly attacked Darwin's gemmule theory of heredity.

From Literature

It is easily distinguished from all others by the fact that the birotulate spicules of the gemmule are of two quite distinct kinds, which occur together on every mature gemmule.

From Project Gutenberg

The result is then, with the worst-endowed families, that the "gemmules" or latent forces of hundreds of virtuous, or at least, not vicious, generations, lie hid in their constitutions.

From Project Gutenberg

If the whole ovum, about 1⁄150 in diameter, were all gemmules, the number would be sufficient to last, at this rate, one per second for 5,600 years!

From Project Gutenberg

In this case it may be conjectured that the gemmules of the lost part were gradually all attracted by the partially diseased surface, and thus perished.

From Project Gutenberg