unicellular

[ yoo-nuh-sel-yuh-ler ]

adjective

1. having or consisting of a single cell.

unicellular

/ ˌjuːnɪˈsɛljʊlə /

adjective

1. (of organisms, such as protozoans and certain algae) consisting of a single cell

unicellular

/ yo̅o̅′nĭ-sĕl′yə-lər /

1. Having or consisting of a single cell.
2. Compare multicellular

Derived Forms

• ˌuniˌcelluˈlarity, noun

Other Words From

• uni·cellu·lari·ty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unicellular¹

First recorded in 1855–60; uni- + cellular

Example Sentences

Yeast are unicellular fungi that ferment sugar into alcohol and carbon dioxide.

From Salon

Its production takes place in the unique catalytic center of the unicellular algae and is only possible if certain cofactors of the relevant proteins are present.

From Science Daily

For example, the researchers found evidence of "heterospecific killing," where a cell engulfs and kills a cell of a different species, across a wide range of unicellular, facultatively multicellular, and obligate multicellular organisms.

From Science Daily

Macroalgae live in both fresh and seawater and are complex multicellular organisms with distinct organs and tissues, in contrast to microalgae, which are microscopic and unicellular.

From Science Daily

For example, methane is the second-biggest driver of greenhouse gas emissions after carbon dioxide, but is largely produced by unicellular organisms called archaea.

From Science Daily