cell theory

noun

a basic tenet of modern biology, first stated by Matthias Schleiden and Theodor Schwann in 1838–39, that cells are the basic units of structure and function in living organisms.

Nearby words

cell membrane, cell pack, cell phone, cell plate, cell sap, cell theory, cell wall, cell-mediated immune response, cell-mediated immunity, cell-mediated reaction, cell-transfer therapy

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for cell theory

But the publication in 1839 of Schwann's cell-theory marks the rise of modern pathology.
Experiments on Animals|Stephen Paget
Schwann had therefore a good deal of exact knowledge to go upon in discussing the significance of the ovum for the cell-theory.
Form and Function|E. S. (Edward Stuart) Russell
The harmful influence of the cell-theory upon morphology did not pass unnoticed by the broader-minded zoologists of the day.
Form and Function|E. S. (Edward Stuart) Russell
The comparison of cells with crystals was made in 1838 by the founders of the cell-theory, Schleiden and Schwann.
The Wonders of Life|Ernst Haeckel

The influence of the cell-theory on morphology was not altogether happy.
Form and Function|E. S. (Edward Stuart) Russell