micropyle

[ mahy-kruh-pahyl ]

noun

1. Zoology. any minute opening in an ovum through which a spermatozoon can enter, as in many insects.
2. Botany. the minute orifice or opening in the integuments of an ovule.

micropyle

/ ˈmaɪkrəʊˌpaɪl /

noun

1. a small opening in the integuments of a plant ovule through which the male gametes pass
2. a small pore in the shell of an insect's eggs through which the sperm passes

micropyle

/ mī′krə-pīl′ /

1. A minute opening in the ovule of a seed plant through which the pollen tube usually enters.
2. A pore in the membrane covering the ovum of some animals through which a spermatozoon can enter.

Derived Forms

• ˌmicroˈpylar, adjective

Other Words From

• micro·pylar adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of micropyle¹

1815–25; micro- + Greek pýlē gate

Word History and Origins

Origin of micropyle¹

C19: from micro- + Greek pulē gate

Example Sentences

If I have time I will have another look at pollen-tubes, as, from what you say, they ought to find their way to the micropyle.

From Project Gutenberg

The embryo e, with its suspensor, is contained in the sac, the radicle pointing to the micropyle m.

From Project Gutenberg

The base of the nucellus is indicated by the chalaza ch, while the apex is at the micropyle m.

From Project Gutenberg

Hence, by ascertaining the position of the micropyle and chalaza, the two extremities of the embryo can in general be discovered.

From Project Gutenberg

It has been already stated that the radicle of the embryo is directed to the micropyle, and the cotyledons to the chalaza.

From Project Gutenberg