nematocyst
[ nem-uh-tuh-sist, ni-mat-uh- ]
/ ˈnɛm ə təˌsɪst, nɪˈmæt ə- /
noun Zoology.
an organ in coelenterates consisting of a minute capsule containing an ejectable thread that causes a sting.
OTHER WORDS FROM nematocyst
nem·a·to·cys·tic, adjectiveWords nearby nematocyst
nemathecium,
nemathelminth,
nematic,
nemato-,
nematocide,
nematocyst,
nematoda,
nematode,
nematodiasis,
nematoid,
nematology
Example sentences from the Web for nematocyst
The cnidoblasts are the mother-cells of the nematocysts, each cell producing one nematocyst in its interior.
British Dictionary definitions for nematocyst
nematocyst
/ (ˈnɛmətəˌsɪst, nɪˈmætə-) /
noun
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
Derived forms of nematocyst
nematocystic, adjectiveMedical definitions for nematocyst
nematocyst
[ nĕm′ə-tə-sĭst′, nə-măt′ə- ]
n.
A capsule within specialized cells of certain coelenterates containing a barbed, threadlike tube that delivers a paralyzing sting.
Scientific definitions for nematocyst
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.