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micronucleus

[ mahy-kroh-noo-klee-uhs, -nyoo- ]

noun

, Biology.
, plural mi·cro·nu·cle·i [mahy-kroh-, noo, -klee-ahy, -, nyoo, -].
  1. the smaller of the two types of nuclei occurring in ciliate protozoans.


micronucleus

/ ˌmaɪkrəʊˈnjuːklɪəs /

noun

  1. the smaller of two nuclei in ciliated protozoans, involved in reproduction Compare macronucleus
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Other Words From

  • micro·nucle·ar adjective
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Word History and Origins

Origin of micronucleus1

First recorded in 1890–95; micro- + nucleus
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Example Sentences

As noted, in fission the meganucleus divides by direct constriction; each micronucleus by a mode of mitosis.

The macronucleus is usually dorsal, elliptical, and cleft, with one micronucleus attached.

The macronucleus is spheroidal and placed near the center of the body; a conspicuous micronucleus lies near it.

The macronucleus is central, spherical in form, and bears a single minute micronucleus.

The macronucleus is spherical, centrally placed, and with one micronucleus closely applied.

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micronucleatemicronutrient