Definition

Relating to acrosomes, which are structures found in sperm cells that help them penetrate the outer layers of an egg during fertilization.

Example

The acrosomal reaction is crucial for fertilization in many species.

Conversation

Did you know that sperm have an acrosomal cap that helps them penetrate the egg?

Really? I had no idea that was part of the process.

Yeah, it's fascinating how biology works on such a tiny level.

Definitely! Science has so many interesting details like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Acrosomal is derived from "acro-" (from Greek "akron", meaning peak or tip) and "soma" (from Greek "soma", meaning body). The term refers to the structure at the tip of a sperm cell, which is crucial for fertilization, thus relating to the peak or tip of the cell's body.

Memory Tip

Imagine the 'tip' ('acro-') of a sperm cell's 'body' ('soma') — that's why acrosomal refers to the structure at the tip of the sperm.

Visually Confused Words