Definition

A type of protozoan cell that develops from a parent sporozoan and can start a new phase in its life cycle, either asexual or sexual.

Example

The merozoite is an important stage in the life cycle of certain parasites, such as those that cause malaria.

Conversation

I was reading about malaria and came across the term merozoite.

Oh really? What does it mean?

It's a type of protozoan cell that can start a new cycle in the parasite's life.

That sounds fascinating! I didn't know much about the biology behind it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Merozoite is formed from "mero-" (from Greek "meros", meaning part) and "zoite" (from Greek "zoon", meaning animal or living being). The term refers to a part of a protozoan that is involved in the life cycle of certain parasites, particularly in malaria, where it represents a stage in the development of the organism.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mero-' meaning 'part' and 'zoite' relating to 'living being' — a merozoite is a part of a living organism in the life cycle of certain parasites.

Visually Confused Words