polar body

noun

, Cell Biology.

1. one of the minute cells arising from the unequal meiotic divisions of the ovum at or near the time of fertilization.

polar body

noun

1. physiol a tiny cell containing little cytoplasm that is produced with the ovum during oogenesis when the oocyte undergoes meiosis

polar body

1. One of the small cells that are produced during the development of an oocyte and ultimately degenerate. A polar body contains one of the nuclei derived from the first or second meiotic division but little or no cytoplasm.
2. See Note at oogenesis

Word History and Origins

Origin of polar body¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

The discovery by Btschli of the spindle and its relation to the polar body has been of very great value.

From Project Gutenberg

At one point is situated a polar body and usually at the pole opposite to it a corresponding prominence.

From Project Gutenberg

In the meantime, typically, a third polar body is formed by division of the first.

From Project Gutenberg

In consequence both remain in the egg or both pass into the polar body.

From Project Gutenberg

In Fig. 10b the chromosomes are seen paired and ready for the first division; that is, for the formation of the first polar body.

From Project Gutenberg