trichocyst

[ trik-uh-sist ]

noun

, Zoology.

1. an organ of offense and defense embedded in the outer cytoplasm of certain protozoans, consisting of a small elongated sac containing a fine, hairlike filament capable of being ejected.

trichocyst

/ ˈtrɪkəˌsɪst /

noun

1. any of various cavities on the surface of some ciliate protozoans, each containing a sensory thread that can be ejected

Derived Forms

• ˌtrichoˈcystic, adjective

Other Words From

• tricho·cystic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of trichocyst¹

First recorded in 1850–55; tricho- + cyst