macronucleus

noun

mac·ro·nu·cle·us ˌma-krō-ˈnü-klē-əs

-ˈnyü-

: a relatively large densely staining nucleus of most ciliate protozoans that is derived from micronuclei and controls various nonreproductive functions

macronuclear

ˌmak-rō-ˈnü-klē-ər

-ˈnyü-

nonstandard -kyə-lər

adjective

Word History

Etymology

macro- + nucleus

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of macronucleus was in 1887

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Macronucleus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/macronucleus. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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Medical Definition

macronucleus

noun

mac·ro·nu·cle·us ˌmak-rō-ˈn(y)ü-klē-əs

plural macronuclei -ˌī

also macronucleuses

: a relatively large densely staining nucleus of most ciliate protozoans that is derived from micronuclei and controls various nonreproductive functions compare micronucleus

macronuclear

ˌmak-rō-ˈn(y)ü-klē-ər

adjective

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macronucleus

noun

Word History

Dictionary Entries Near macronucleus

Cite this Entry

Medical Definition