melanosome

[ muh-lan-uh-sohm, mel-uh-nuh- ]

noun

, Cell Biology.

1. an organelle in melanocytes that synthesizes and stores melanin.

Word History and Origins

Origin of melanosome¹

First recorded in 1935–40; melano- + -some ³

Example Sentences

The team’s simulations showed plate-shaped melanosomes heating up more than the other two shapes.

From Science News

The melanosomes’ size, shape and arrangement may help direct light that isn’t absorbed by an individual melanosome to others in the layer.

From Science News For Students

The melanosomes’ size, shape and arrangement may help direct light that isn’t absorbed by an individual melanosome to others in the layer, trapping even more light.

From Science News