Definition

The capability of a cell to develop into any type of cell or tissue, allowing it to form a complete organism or part of one.

Example

In embryonic development, totipotency allows a single fertilized egg to become a complete organism.

Conversation

I was reading about cell biology, and I came across the term totipotency.

Oh, I think I've heard of that! It's about how certain cells can develop into different types, right?

Exactly! It’s fascinating how an egg cell has the potential for totipotency to create a whole organism.

Nature is incredible! It’s amazing how much complexity is packed into such tiny cells.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Totipotency → It is formed from "toti-" (from Latin "totus", meaning whole or entire) and "potentia" (from Latin, meaning power or ability). The word "totipotency" refers to the ability of a cell to develop into a complete organism, thus being whole or entire in its potential.

Memory Tip

Think of 'whole' ('toti-') and 'power' ('potentia') to remember that 'totipotency' means the power to become a whole organism.

Visually Confused Words