Definition

The fluid part of a muscle cell that surrounds the myofibrils and contains various organelles and substances necessary for muscle function.

Example

The sarcoplasm is essential for the energy production needed during muscle contraction.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of sarcoplasm?

I think I read about it in a biology class once.

Yeah, it's the cytoplasm of muscle fibers, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how much detail there is in muscle structure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sarcoplasm is formed from "sarco-" (from Greek "sarkos", meaning flesh) and "plasma" (from Greek "plasma", meaning something molded or formed). The word refers to the fleshy substance within muscle cells, highlighting its composition as a form of flesh.

Memory Tip

Think of 'flesh' ('sarco-') being 'molded' or 'formed' ('plasma') to remember that sarcoplasm is the substance found in muscle cells.

Visually Confused Words