zoosperm

[ zoh-uh-spurm ]

noun

1. Botany, Mycology Archaic. zoospore.
2. Zoology. spermatozoon.

zoosperm

/ ˈzəʊəˌspɜːm; ˌzəʊəspɜːˈmætɪk /

noun

1. another word for spermatozoon

Derived Forms

• zoospermatic, adjective

Other Words From

• zo·o·sper·mat·ic [zoh-, uh, -sper-, mat, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of zoosperm¹

First recorded in 1830–40; zoo- + -sperm

Example Sentences

Zoosperm, zō′ō-sperm, n. the sperm-cell, or male seed-cell—also Zoosper′mium.—adj.

From Project Gutenberg

It will be seen, then, that each spermatozoön, or zoösperm, actually contains, in an embryonic condition, every organ and tissue of the individual producing it.

From Project Gutenberg

Fecundation.—It is often asked, and the question has elicited some discussion, Which is the principal reproductive element; the zoösperm, or the ovum?

From Project Gutenberg

Union of the Ovum and Zoösperm.—The zoösperms not only come in contact with the ovum, but penetrate the thin membrane which incloses its contents, and enter its interior, where they disappear, becoming united with its substance.

From Project Gutenberg

Even more than this: It is supposed that each ovum and each zoösperm contains not only the gemmules necessary to reproduce the individuals who produced them, but also a number of gemmules which have been transmitted from the individuals' ancestors.

From Project Gutenberg