encyst

[ en-sist ]

verb (used with or without object)

, Biology.

1. to enclose or become enclosed in a cyst.

encyst

/ ɛnˈsɪst /

verb

1. biology to enclose or become enclosed by a cyst, thick membrane, or shell

Derived Forms

• enˈcysted, adjective
• enˈcystment, noun

Other Words From

• en·cystment encys·tation noun
• unen·cysted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of encyst¹

First recorded in 1835–45; en- ¹ + cyst

Example Sentences

The resulting coupled cell or zygote divides into two, which again encyst.

From Project Gutenberg

She has had to encyst it, or it would be to her Senegal and French Guinea possessions a regular main to lay on smuggling.

From Project Gutenberg

Thence they are apt to migrate or stray into the lungs and liver, where they encyst themselves.

From Project Gutenberg

The Cercari part with their tails, and subsequently they encyst themselves on or within the surface of the body of some mollusk.

From Project Gutenberg