gemmule

[ jem-yool ]

noun

1. Botany. gemma ( def 2 ).
2. Zoology. an asexually produced mass of cells that is capable of developing into an animal, as a freshwater sponge.
3. Evolution. one of the hypothetical living units conceived by Darwin in the theory of pangenesis as the bearers of the hereditary attributes.

gemmule

/ ˈdʒɛmjuːl /

noun

1. zoology a cell or mass of cells produced asexually by sponges and developing into a new individual; bud
2. botany a small gemma
3. a small hereditary particle postulated by Darwin in his theory of pangenesis

gemmule

/ jĕm′yo̅o̅l /

1. A small gemma or similar structure, especially a reproductive structure in some sponges that remains dormant through the winter and later develops into a new individual.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gemmule¹

1835–45; < French < Latin gemmula. See gemma, -ule

Word History and Origins

Origin of gemmule¹

C19: from French, from Latin gemmula a little bud; see gem

Example Sentences

The gemmule-spicules, which are usually numerous, are slender.

From Project Gutenberg

We can easily conceive a being so small, that a gemmule would be to it as large as St. Paul's would be to us.

From Project Gutenberg

The terminal growing bud of the axis is called the plumule or gemmule (g), and represents the ascending axis.

From Project Gutenberg

Any part of a gemmule would be an impossible (because a less than possible) quantity.

From Project Gutenberg

As a theory the gemmule plot is just as good and just as bad scientifically as Weismann's.

From Project Gutenberg