Definition

A small structure found in certain sea creatures, like jellyfish, that can shoot out a tiny, stinging thread to catch prey or defend itself.

Example

When the jellyfish was touched, its nematocysts released a painful sting.

Conversation

Did you know that jellyfish have something called a nematocyst?

Really? What does it do?

It’s a special cell that shoots out a stinging thread to catch prey.

That sounds intense! I never realized how fascinating they are.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nematocyst → It is formed from "nema" (from Greek "nema", meaning thread) and "kystis" (from Greek "kystis", meaning bladder or sac). The word refers to a thread-like structure within a sac that is used by certain organisms, such as jellyfish, for capturing prey or defense.

Memory Tip

Imagine a tiny 'thread' ('nema') inside a 'sac' ('kystis') that helps an organism catch its food or protect itself. This helps you remember that a nematocyst is a specialized cell that uses a thread-like structure.

Visually Confused Words