Definition

A tiny, undeveloped form of certain parasites that is produced when a zygote or spore divides. It is the stage just before the parasite infects a new host cell.

Example

The sporozoite is the first stage of the parasite's life cycle, ready to invade a new host.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a sporozoite?

No, I haven’t. What is it?

It's a stage in the life cycle of certain parasites before they infect a new host.

Oh, that sounds interesting! I didn’t know parasites had such complex stages.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sporozoite → It is formed from "sporo-" (from Greek "sporos", meaning seed) and "zoite" (from Greek "zoon", meaning animal or living being). The word "sporozoite" refers to a motile stage in the life cycle of certain protozoan parasites, indicating a seed-like or reproductive form of a living organism.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sporos' meaning 'seed' and 'zoon' meaning 'living being' — a sporozoite is like a seed of a living organism that can develop into a parasite.

Visually Confused Words