stem cell

American  

noun

Cell Biology.

1. a cell that upon division replaces its own numbers and also gives rise to cells that differentiate further into one or more specialized types, as various B cells and T cells.

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stem cell British  

noun

1. histology an undifferentiated cell that gives rise to specialized cells, such as blood cells

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stem cell Scientific  

1. An unspecialized cell found in fetuses, embryos, and some adult body tissues that has the potential to develop into specialized cells or divide into other stem cells. Stem cells from fetuses or embryos can develop into any type of differentiated cells, while those found in mature tissues develop only into specific cells. Stem cells can potentially be used to replace tissue damaged or destroyed by disease or injury, but the use of embryonic stem cells for this purpose is controversial.

2. Also called progenitor cell

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stem cell Cultural  

1. A cell from which a variety of other cells can develop through the process of cellular differentiation. Stem cells can produce only a certain group of cells (as with skin stem cells) or any cell in the body (as with embryonic stem cells).

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Discover More

A major controversy involves the question of whether nonembryonic stem cells should be used for medical purposes.

Etymology

Origin of stem cell

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

Once activated, these T cells begin multiplying and producing IL-22, a signaling protein called a cytokine that plays a major role in intestinal repair and stem cell regeneration.

From Science Daily • May 21, 2026

The team is now investigating whether lysosomal dysfunction in aging stem cells contributes to the development of leukemic stem cells, potentially connecting normal stem cell aging with cancer formation.

From Science Daily • May 12, 2026

The stem cell services provider is expected to secure Thailand’s good manufacturing practice certification and official cell banking accreditation in 2026, the analyst says.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 11, 2026

A Norwegian man has been effectively cured of HIV after receiving a stem cell transplant from his brother, doctors announced on Monday.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

As we talk, he reels off the benefits of the stem cell treatments, as well as facts from studies he’s read, but he struggles to catch my questions.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026