Definition

A protective structure where certain types of parasites develop and can be transferred to new hosts.

Example

The oocyst is essential for the life cycle of the parasite, allowing it to survive outside the host.

Conversation

Have you heard about the oocyst in that biology class?

Yeah, I read a bit about it; it's pretty interesting how it helps with transferring zygotes.

Right? I didn't realize how important the oocyst was for the lifecycle of sporozoans.

Me neither! It really shows how complex these organisms can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oocyst is formed from "oo-" (from Greek "oion", meaning egg) and "cyst" (from Greek "kystis", meaning bladder or sac). The word refers to a sac-like structure that contains eggs, particularly in the life cycle of certain parasites.

Memory Tip

Think of 'oo-' as relating to an 'egg' and 'cyst' as a 'sac' — together, they describe a sac that holds eggs.

Visually Confused Words