lysosome

[ lahy-suh-sohm ]

noun

, Cell Biology.

1. a cell organelle containing enzymes that digest particles and that disintegrate the cell after its death.

lysosome

/ ˈlaɪsəˌsəʊm /

noun

1. any of numerous small particles, containing digestive enzymes, that are present in the cytoplasm of most cells

lysosome

/ lī′sə-sōm′ /

1. A cell organelle that is surrounded by a membrane, has an acidic interior, and contains hydrolytic enzymes that break down food molecules, especially proteins and other complex molecules. Lysosomes fuse with vacuoles to digest their contents. The digested material is then transported across the organelle's membrane for use in or transport out of the cell.
2. See more at cell

Derived Forms

• ˌlysoˈsomal, adjective

Other Words From

• lyso·somal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lysosome¹

First recorded in 1950–55; lyso- + -some ³

Example Sentences

In animal cells, several of these small sac-like structures work a bit like lysosomes, helping to recycle wastes.

From Science News For Students

There’s the lysosome, a bag of sizzling acid that’s a waste disposal tool to break down the cell’s gunk.

From Singularity Hub