Definition

The very small and detailed structure of a biological specimen, like a cell or tissue, that can only be seen with special tools like electron microscopes.

Example

Scientists studied the ultrastructure of the cell to understand its functions better.

Conversation

Did you know that the ultrastructure of a cell is really complicated?

I heard that! It’s amazing what we can only see with special microscopes.

Yeah, I read that electron microscopy is needed to observe its details.

Exactly! It's fascinating how much we miss with just our eyes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ultrastructure is formed from "ultra-" (meaning beyond) and "structure" (from Latin "structura", meaning arrangement or building). The term refers to the detailed structure of a biological specimen at a scale beyond what can be seen with a light microscope, emphasizing the complexity of its arrangement.

Memory Tip

Think of 'beyond' ('ultra-') the usual 'arrangement' ('structura') to remember that 'ultrastructure' refers to the intricate details of a structure.

Visually Confused Words