nematocyst [nem -uh -tuh -sist, ni-mat -uh -]
Examples Word Origin
an organ in coelenterates consisting of a minute capsule containing an ejectable thread that causes a sting. Show More
Origin of nematocyst First recorded in
1870–75; nemato- +
-cyst Related forms nem·a·to·cys·tic , adjective Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for nematocyst Historical Examples of nematocyst British Dictionary definitions for nematocyst a structure in coelenterates, such as jellyfish, consisting of a capsule containing a hollow coiled thread that can be everted to sting or paralyse prey and enemies Show More
Derived Forms nematocystic , adjective Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Word Origin and History for nematocyst n. 1875, from nemato- , comb. form of Greek nema , nematos "thread" (genitive nematos ), from stem of nein "to spin" (see needle (n.)) + cyst .
Show More
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
nematocyst [nĕm′ ə-tə-sĭst′, nə-măt′ ə-]
A capsule within specialized cells of certain coelenterates containing a barbed, threadlike tube that delivers a paralyzing sting. Show More
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.
nematocyst [nĕm′ ə-tə-sĭst′, nĭ-măt′ ə-sĭst′]
One of the minute capsules in the tentacles of cnidarians, such as jellyfish, hydras, or sea anemones, used for stinging. The capsule is produced by a special cell (called a cnidoblast) and contains a tightly coiled barbed thread that quickly shoots forth if the capsule's lid is disturbed. The thread often contains poison. Show More
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
