oocyst

[ oh-uh-sist ]

noun

, Biology.

1. the encysted zygotic stage in the life cycle of some sporozoans.

oocyst

/ ˈəʊəˌsɪst /

noun

1. an encysted zygote of sporozoan protozoans that undergoes sporogony to produce infective sporozoites

Word History and Origins

Origin of oocyst¹

First recorded in 1870–75; oo- + -cyst

Example Sentences

Immediately after the formation of the antheridia new productions show themselves, both around the oocyst and within it.

From Project Gutenberg

The order Coccidiidea is divided into four families, characterized by the number of sporocysts (if any) found in the oocyst.

From Project Gutenberg

In one case (Coccidium mitrarium), the oocyst itself, instead of being spherical, is curiously shaped like a mitre.

From Project Gutenberg

No sporozoites are formed in the oocyst, the sporozoites being unenclosed (gymnospores).

From Project Gutenberg