unicellular

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌjuːnɪˈsɛl.jʊlər/

KK: /junɪˈsɛlʊr/

adjective

Definition

Relating to an organism that is made up of only one cell.

Example

Bacteria are examples of unicellular organisms that can live in various environments.

Conversation

Did you know that some organisms are unicellular?

Really? I always thought they were all made of many cells.

Yeah, it's fascinating how unicellular life forms can be so complex.

For sure! They play a huge role in our ecosystems.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

single

solitary

individual

Antonyms

multicellular

composite

complex

Root Explanation

Unicellular → It is formed from "uni-" (meaning one) and "cellula" (from Latin, meaning small room or chamber). The word "unicellular" refers to an organism that consists of a single cell.

Memory Tip

Think of 'uni-' meaning one, and 'cellula' meaning a small room — this helps you remember that 'unicellular' describes an organism made up of just one cell.

Visually Confused Words

equicellular

bicellular

uncellar

cellular

pluricellular