1
: having a haploid phase that produces two kinds of gametes capable of fusing to form a zygote
used especially of algae and fungi
2

Word History

Etymology

hom- + Greek thallein to sprout, grow — more at thallus

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of homothallic was in 1904

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Cite this Entry

“Homothallic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/homothallic. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

homothallic

adjective
: having only one haploid phase that produces two kinds of gametes capable of fusing to form a zygote
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