endospore

[ en-duh-spawr, -spohr ]

noun

1. Botany, Mycology. the inner coat of a spore. Compare intine.
2. Bacteriology. a spore formed within a cell of a rod-shaped organism.

endospore

/ ˈɛndəʊˌspɔː; ˌɛndəʊˈspɔːrəs; ɛnˈdɒspərəs /

noun

1. a small asexual spore produced by some bacteria and algae
2. the innermost wall of a spore or pollen grain

endospore

/ ĕn′də-spôr′ /

1. A rounded, inactive form that certain bacteria assume under conditions of extreme temperature, dryness, or lack of food. The bacterium develops a waterproof cell wall that protects it from being dried out or damaged. Bacteria have been known to remain dormant but alive in the form of endospores for long periods of time, even thousands of years.
2. Also called endosporium

Derived Forms

• endosporous, adjective

Other Words From

• en·dos·por·ous [en-, dos, -per-, uh, s, en-doh-, spawr, -, -, spohr, -], adjective
• en·dospor·ous·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of endospore¹

First recorded in 1870–75; endo- + spore

Example Sentences

When induced into forming an endospore the bacteria can survive the harsh conditions inside concrete, lying dormant until called into action.

From Science Daily

Whole grains are grains in their most unadulterated form, still containing the endospore, bran, and germ – most of the plant’s nutritional value lies in the brain and germ.

From Forbes

In times of —when nutrition is scarce, for example— forms an endospore: a resilient, dehydrated version of its former self.

From Scientific American

When conditions deteriorate, they can form a tight little tank-like bundle called an endospore.

From Scientific American

The oospores of the Saprolegniæ, when arrived at maturity, possess a tolerably thick double integument, consisting of an epispore and an endospore.

From Project Gutenberg