Biology Words That Start With A
- Abiotic – Non-living factors in an environment, such as temperature or light.
- Absorption – The process by which cells take in substances from the outside environment.
- Abyssal – Referring to the deepest parts of the ocean.
- Acellular – Not made up of or containing cells.
- Acid – A substance with a pH less than 7; can donate a proton in a chemical reaction.
- Actin – A protein that forms microfilaments and plays a key role in muscle contraction.
- Activation – The process of making something active or functional.
- Active transport – Movement of molecules across a cell membrane requiring energy, typically against a concentration gradient.
- Adaptation – A trait that increases an organism’s fitness in its environment.
- Adenine – A nitrogenous base found in DNA and RNA.
- Adhesion – The tendency of different kinds of molecules to stick together.
- Adipose – Fat tissue in the body.
- Aerobic – Processes that require oxygen.
- Afferent – Carrying towards, often in the context of nerves or blood vessels.
- Agar – A gelatinous substance derived from seaweed, used as a medium for growing bacteria.
- Allele – Different forms of a gene.
- Alveoli – Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.
- Amino acid – Building blocks of proteins.
- Amphibian – Cold-blooded vertebrates that can live both in water and on land, e.g., frogs.
- Amylase – An enzyme that breaks down starch.
- Anaerobic – Processes that do not require oxygen.
- Anaphase – A stage in cell division where chromosomes are pulled apart.
- Anatomy – The study of the structure of organisms.
- Angiosperm – Flowering plants.
- Anion – A negatively charged ion.
- Antagonist – A substance that interferes with the action of a physiological process.
- Antibiotic – A substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms.
- Antibody – A protein produced by the immune system to recognize and neutralize pathogens.
- Antigen – A substance that induces an immune response.
- Apoptosis – Programmed cell death.
- Aquatic – Relating to water.
- Arachnid – A class of joint-legged invertebrate animals, e.g., spiders and scorpions.
- Artery – Blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart.
- Asexual reproduction – Reproduction without the fusion of gametes.
- ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) – The main energy currency of cells.
- Atrium – Each of the two upper chambers of the heart.
- Autosome – Any chromosome that is not a sex chromosome.
- Autotroph – An organism that produces its own food, typically through photosynthesis.
- Axon – The long projection of a neuron that carries nerve impulses away from the cell body.
- Aerobe – An organism that requires oxygen to live.
- Agonist – A substance that initiates a physiological response when combined with a receptor.
- Algae – Simple, autotrophic organisms that can perform photosynthesis.
- Allelopathy – The production of chemicals by plants that inhibit the growth of neighboring plants.
- Allergen – A substance that causes an allergic reaction.
- Allopatric – Occurring in separate, non-overlapping geographical areas.
- Altruism – Behavior that benefits another organism at a cost to oneself.
- Amino group – A functional group consisting of a nitrogen atom attached to two hydrogen atoms.
- Amnion – A membranous sac that surrounds and protects the embryo.
- Anaerobe – An organism that can live and grow in the absence of oxygen.
- Analogous – Structures in different species having the same function but have evolved separately.
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Biology Words That Start With B
- Bacteria – Single-celled microorganisms, some of which can cause diseases.
- Bacillus – A rod-shaped bacterium.
- Basal – Relating to the base or foundation of something.
- Base – In genetics, refers to the basic building blocks of DNA and RNA (adenine, cytosine, guanine, thymine, and uracil).
- Basidiomycete – A type of fungus that produces spores on a structure called a basidium.
- Benthic – Relating to the bottom of a body of water.
- Bilateral symmetry – Body plan in which an organism can be divided into equal halves along only one plane.
- Binary fission – A method of asexual reproduction in which a cell divides into two equal parts.
- Biochemistry – The study of chemical processes within living organisms.
- Biodiversity – The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
- Biofilm – A community of microorganisms that form on surfaces.
- Biogenesis – The principle that living organisms arise from other living organisms.
- Biome – A large community of plants and animals that occupies a distinct region.
- Biomolecule – A molecule that plays a significant role in the structure and function of living organisms.
- Biophysics – The study of biological processes using the principles of physics.
- Biosphere – The global sum of all ecosystems.
- Biota – The animal and plant life of a particular region.
- Biotic – Relating to living organisms.
- Blastula – An early stage of embryonic development in animals.
- Botany – The scientific study of plants.
- Brachiation – A method of movement that uses the arms to swing from branch to branch.
- Bronchus – A major air passage in the lungs.
- Bryophyte – Non-vascular plants, including mosses and liverworts.
- Budding – A form of asexual reproduction where a new organism grows out of the parent organism.
- Buffer – A solution that resists changes in pH.
- Bursa – A fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues.
- Byssus – A group of strong filaments that mussels use to attach to solid surfaces.
- Bioluminescence – The production of light by living organisms.
- Blastocyst – A structure formed in early embryogenesis in mammals.
- Bladder – An organ that stores urine.
- Bilirubin – A yellow compound that is produced when hemoglobin breaks down.
- Biomass – The total mass of organisms in a given area or volume.
- Biopsy – A medical test involving the removal of cells or tissues for examination.
- Bioinformatics – The use of software and mathematical models to process biological data.
- Biocatalyst – A substance, especially an enzyme, that initiates or accelerates a biochemical reaction.
- Biodegradable – Capable of being broken down by natural processes.
- Bioenergetics – The study of energy flow and transformation in living organisms.
- Biogeochemical – Relating to the partitioning and cycling of chemical elements and compounds between living and non-living parts of an ecosystem.
- Biometric – Relating to or involving the measurement of biological data.
- Bionics – The study of mechanical systems that function like living organisms or parts of living organisms.
- Bioturbation – The disturbance of sedimentary deposits by living organisms.
- Bipedalism – The ability to walk on two legs.
- Birthrate – The number of live births per thousand of the population per year.
- Blind spot – The point of entry of the optic nerve on the retina, insensitive to light.
- Blood-brain barrier – A filtering mechanism that prevents certain substances from entering the brain.
- Bolus – A small rounded mass of a substance, especially chewed food.
- Bone marrow – The soft, spongy tissue in the center of bones that produces blood cells.
- Botulinum toxin – A neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
- Bract – A modified leaf or scale, typically small, with a flower or flower cluster in its axil.
- Brood – A family of young animals produced at one hatching or birth.
- Bulb – A rounded underground storage organ present in some plants.
- Bundle of His – A collection of heart muscle cells specialized for electrical conduction.
- Butyric acid – A fatty acid found in butter and other fats.
- Bursitis – Inflammation of a bursa.
- Bronchiolitis – Inflammation of the bronchioles.
- Bruxism – Involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth.
- Bacteriophage – A virus that infects and replicates within bacteria.
- Bilateria – Animals with bilateral symmetry.
- Bioindicator – An organism used to monitor the health of an environment.
- Bioprospecting – The search for plant and animal species from which medicinal drugs and other commercially valuable compounds can be obtained.
- Biotin – A vitamin of the B complex.
- Blastomere – A cell formed by cleavage of a fertilized ovum.
- Bromeliad – A tropical American plant that typically has rosettes of fleshy or spiky leaves.
- Bacteriology – The study of bacteria.
- Baleen – A comb-like structure in the mouths of baleen whales, used to filter plankton from the water.
- Barbel – A slender, whisker-like sensory organ near the mouth of certain fishes.
- Benthos – The flora and fauna on the bottom of a sea or lake.
- Biennial – A plant that takes two years to grow from seed to fruition and die.
- Biliverdin – A green pigment formed from hemoglobin.
- Bioavailability – The proportion of a drug or other substance that enters the circulation when introduced into the body.
- Biocenosis – The living community of an ecosystem.
- Biodegradation – The decomposition of materials by bacteria, fungi, or other biological means.
- Bioflavonoid – A type of antioxidant.
- Biogas – Methane produced by the fermentation of organic matter.
- Biolysis – The destruction of life.
- Biomagnification – The process by which the concentration of toxic substances increases in each successive link in the food chain.
- Bionomics – The study of the relationships between organisms and their environments.
- Biopiracy – The commercial development of naturally occurring biological materials without fair compensation to the community from which they originate.
- Biosynthesis – The production of complex molecules within living organisms or cells.
- Biota – The animal and plant life of a particular region or period.
- Biotic factor – A living thing that affects another organism in its environment.
- Bladderwort – A carnivorous aquatic plant.
- Blastoderm – The layer of cells formed by the cleavage of a fertilized egg.
- Blastopore – The opening of the central cavity of an embryo in the early stage of development.
- Blepharitis – Inflammation of the eyelids.
- Bolus injection – A method of drug administration by which a drug is given directly into a vein.
- Bone resorption – The process by which osteoclasts break down bone and release the minerals.
- Bovine – Relating to cattle.
- Bradykinin – A peptide that causes blood vessels to dilate.
- Brainstem – The central trunk of the brain.
- Bromination – The introduction of bromine to a compound.
- Bryology – The study of mosses and liverworts.
- Buccal – Relating to the cheek.
- Budding yeast – A type of yeast that reproduces by budding off a smaller daughter cell.
- Bufotoxin – A toxic substance found in the skin of some toads.
- Bulbourethral gland – One of two small exocrine glands in males.
- Bursa of Fabricius – An organ in birds where B cells mature.
- Butterfly effect – The idea that a small change can have large effects elsewhere.
- By-product – A secondary product derived from a manufacturing process.
- Byssal thread – Threads by which mussels and some other bivalves attach themselves to surfaces.
Biology Words That Start With C
- Cell – The basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms.
- Chloroplast – An organelle in plant cells responsible for photosynthesis.
- Chromosome – Thread-like structures made of DNA that carry genetic information.
- Cytoplasm – The jelly-like substance within a cell, excluding the nucleus.
- Cytokinesis – The process during cell division where the cytoplasm divides.
- Carnivore – An organism that primarily consumes meat.
- Cilia – Small, hair-like projections on some cells used for movement.
- Coenzyme – A non-protein compound necessary for an enzyme’s activity.
- Codon – A sequence of three nucleotides in DNA or RNA that corresponds to a specific amino acid.
- Commensalism – A relationship between two species where one benefits and the other is neither harmed nor benefited.
- Catabolism – The breakdown of complex molecules in organisms to produce energy.
- Cancer – A disease caused by an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells.
- Capillary – The smallest blood vessels connecting arterioles to venules.
- Carbohydrate – Organic compounds like sugars and starches that provide energy.
- Catalyst – A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed.
- Cellulose – A complex carbohydrate that forms the primary structural component of plants.
- Chlorophyll – The green pigment in plants responsible for capturing light energy for photosynthesis.
- Chemosynthesis – The synthesis of organic compounds using energy derived from chemical reactions, typically in bacteria.
- Chordate – Animals with a notochord, such as vertebrates.
- Chromoplast – An organelle responsible for pigment synthesis and storage in plant cells.
- Circadian rhythm – Biological processes that display an endogenous oscillation of about 24 hours.
- Cladogram – A tree diagram used to illustrate evolutionary relationships.
- Cleavage – The division of cells during early embryonic growth.
- Climax community – A stable community formed after ecological succession has reached equilibrium.
- Coccus – A spherical bacterium.
- Coevolution – The evolution of two species in response to changes in each other.
- Cohesion – The sticking together of particles of the same substance.
- Collagen – A protein that provides structural support in connective tissues.
- Community – A group of interdependent organisms inhabiting the same region.
- Consumer – An organism that feeds on other organisms in a food chain.
- Cotyledon – The first leaf or pair of leaves produced by the embryo of a seed plant.
- Cross-pollination – The transfer of pollen from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another.
- Cuticle – A protective, waxy layer covering the epidermis of many plants.
- Cyanobacteria – A phylum of bacteria that obtain energy through photosynthesis.
- Cyst – A sac within or on the body surface containing air or fluid.
- Cytochrome – Proteins that play a key role in electron transport chains in mitochondria and chloroplasts.
- Cytogenetics – The study of chromosomes and chromosome abnormalities.
- Cytoskeleton – A network of fibers in a cell that helps the cell maintain its shape and aids in movement.
- Cytotoxic – Toxic to cells.
- Calvin cycle – The cycle of enzyme-catalyzed dark reactions of photosynthesis.
- Cambium – A layer of tissue that produces new vascular cells in plants.
- Capsid – The protein shell of a virus.
- Carnassial – Paired upper and lower teeth in carnivorous mammals adapted for shearing flesh.
- Caudal – Pertaining to the tail end of the body.
- Centriole – A structure in animal cells involved in cell division.
- Chaperone – Proteins that assist in the folding of other proteins.
- Chemotaxis – Movement of an organism in response to a chemical stimulus.
- Chitin – A fibrous substance in the exoskeleton of arthropods and fungi.
- Chlorosis – The symptom of a plant turning yellow when it should be green.
- Chromatid – One of two identical halves of a replicated chromosome.
- Chromatin – The material of which chromosomes are made, consisting of protein, RNA, and DNA.
- Chromosome number – The total number of chromosomes in a cell of an organism.
- Chymotrypsin – A digestive enzyme that breaks down proteins in the small intestine.
- Ciliate – A type of protozoa that moves using hair-like structures called cilia.
- Clade – A group of organisms believed to have evolved from a common ancestor.
- Clonal – Relating to or derived from a single individual or cell.
- Clone – An organism or cell that is genetically identical to the unit or individual from which it was derived.
- Cloaca – A common cavity at the end of the digestive tract in some vertebrates.
- Cnidarian – A phylum containing over 10,000 species of animals found exclusively in aquatic environments.
- Cognitive – Relating to cognition, the mental processes of perception, memory, judgment, and reasoning.
- Commensal – An organism that lives in close association with another without harm or benefit.
- Conjugation – The direct transfer of DNA between two cells that are temporarily joined.
- Connective tissue – Tissue that connects, supports, binds, or separates other tissues or organs.
- Conspecific – Belonging to the same species.
- Contagious – A disease spread from one person or organism to another by direct or indirect contact.
- Crepuscular – Active during the dawn and dusk.
- Cristae – The internal compartments formed by the inner membrane of a mitochondrion.
- Crop – A pouch in many birds and some lower animals that resembles a stomach for storage.
- Crossbreeding – The mating of different breeds.
- Crustacean – A large group of arthropods, usually aquatic, that includes crabs, lobsters, shrimps, and barnacles.
- Cutaneous – Relating to the skin.
- Cytosol – The aqueous component of the cytoplasm of a cell.
- Callose – A polysaccharide that is deposited at the site of injury in plants.
- Camouflage – The use of any combination of materials, coloration, or illumination for concealment by organisms.
- Capitation – A payment or fee of a fixed amount per person.
- Catabolite – A molecule resulting from catabolism.
- Cation – A positively charged ion.
- Catkin – A slim cylindrical flower cluster in plants like willows.
- Caudicle – The stalk attaching a pollen grain to the viscidium in orchids.
- Cecum – A pouch connected to the junction of the small and large intestines.
- Cell cycle – The series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and duplication.
- Cell wall – A rigid layer lying outside the cell membrane of the cells of plants, fungi, and bacteria.
- Centromere – The region of a chromosome where the microtubules of the spindle attach during cell division.
- Cephalothorax – The fused head and thorax of spiders and certain other arthropods.
- Cerebellum – The part of the brain responsible for coordinating muscular activity.
- Cerebrum – The principal and anterior part of the brain in vertebrates.
- Chelate – A type of bonding of ions and molecules to metal ions.
- Chemoreceptor – A sensory cell or organ responsive to chemical stimuli.
- Chiasmata – The point where two homologous non-sister chromatids exchange genetic material during chromosomal crossover.
- Chlorosis – A condition in which leaves produce insufficient chlorophyll.
- Cholecystokinin – A hormone that stimulates the digestion of fat and protein.
- Chorion – The outermost membrane surrounding an embryo of a reptile, bird, or mammal.
- Chromophore – The part of a molecule responsible for its color.
- Chronic – (of an illness) persisting for a long time or constantly recurring.
- Chyme – The pulpy acidic fluid that passes from the stomach to the small intestine.
- Circulatory system – The system that circulates blood and lymph through the body.
- Cloning – The process of producing similar populations of genetically identical individuals.
- Cnidocyte – A type of cell unique to cnidarians which contains a specialized organelle used for capturing prey.
- Coelom – The main body cavity in most multicellular animals.
- Collenchyma – A type of ground tissue in plants that provides structural support.
Biology Words That Start With D
- DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid): The molecule that carries genetic information in all living organisms.
- Dendrite: Branched extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.
- Dominant: A trait that will appear in the offspring if one of the parents contributes it.
- Diffusion: The movement of molecules from an area of high concentration to low concentration.
- Diploid: Cells that have two sets of chromosomes.
- Decomposer: Organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms.
- Dermis: The layer of skin beneath the epidermis.
- Diaphragm: A muscle that plays a major role in breathing.
- Dorsal: Referring to the back side of an organism.
- Duodenum: The first part of the small intestine.
- Dichotomous: Dividing or branching into two parts.
- Dioxin: A toxic compound known to cause health issues in living organisms.
- Dilution: Reducing the concentration of a substance in a solution.
- Disease: A pathological condition affecting an organism.
- Disaccharide: A sugar molecule consisting of two monosaccharides.
- Diurnal: Active during the day.
- Dormancy: A period in an organism’s life cycle when growth, development, and physical activity are temporarily stopped.
- Dermal: Related to the skin.
- Dactylology: The study of finger movements, such as in sign language.
- Darwinism: The theory of evolution by natural selection proposed by Charles Darwin.
- Deciduous: Trees and shrubs that shed their leaves annually.
- Dehydration: The loss or removal of water.
- Denaturation: A process in which proteins lose their structure.
- Dermatology: The study of skin and its diseases.
- Detritivore: Organisms that feed on detritus or dead organic material.
- Deuterostome: Animals in which the first opening in development becomes the anus.
- Diapause: A period of suspended development in an insect.
- Dicot: Plants with two embryonic seed leaves or cotyledons.
- Digestion: The process by which food is broken down into simpler substances.
- Dimorphism: The existence of two distinct forms of a species.
- Dinoflagellate: A group of single-celled, often photosynthetic protists.
- Diplococcus: A type of bacteria that occurs in pairs.
- Dispersal: The movement of organisms from one place to another.
- Distal: Situated farthest from the point of attachment.
- Divergent evolution: Evolutionary pattern in which two species become more different over time.
- DNA replication: The process by which DNA makes a copy of itself.
- Dopamine: A neurotransmitter involved in reward and pleasure.
- Down regulation: The process by which a cell reduces the number of receptors exposed to a particular substance.
- Drake’s equation: An equation used to estimate the number of active, communicative extraterrestrial civilizations in the Milky Way.
- Drosophila: A genus of small fruit flies used in genetic studies.
- Drupe: A type of fruit with a single seed enclosed in a hard pit.
- Duress: Extreme stress or pressure on an organism.
- Dystrophy: Any disorder arising from defective or faulty nutrition.
- Decapod: Crustaceans with ten legs, like shrimp and crabs.
- Deme: A local population of organisms that have similar genes.
- Dermal papilla: A small, nipple-like extension of the dermis into the epidermis.
- Desmosome: A structure by which two adjacent cells are attached.
- Detoxification: The process of removing toxic substances.
- Deuterium: A stable isotope of hydrogen.
- Diastole: The phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle relaxes and allows the chambers to fill with blood.
- Dichogamy: The production of male and female reproductive organs at different times.
- Dictyosome: Another term for the Golgi apparatus in plants.
- Dioecious: Species in which male and female reproductive organs are in different individuals.
- Dipnoi: A subclass of fish known as lungfish.
- Disjunction: The normal separation or moving apart of chromosomes during cell division.
- Distichous: Arranged in two opposite rows.
- Diuretic: A substance that promotes the production of urine.
- Divergent boundary: A tectonic boundary where two plates are moving away from each other.
- Dobzhansky, Theodosius: A prominent geneticist and evolutionary biologist.
- Doldrums: An equatorial region of the Atlantic Ocean with calms, sudden storms, and light unpredictable winds.
- Dominance hierarchy: A social ranking among group-living animals, determined by aggressive and submissive behaviors.
- Doppler effect: An increase or decrease in the frequency of sound, light, or other waves.
- Dormant bud: A bud that is not growing and will not grow until conditions are right.
- Dorsiventral: Having distinct dorsal and ventral sides, as in leaves.
- Down’s syndrome: A genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra 21st chromosome.
- Drift net: A type of fishing net that is left to float with the tide.
- Drupelet: One of the small drupes that make up the fruit of the blackberry, raspberry, etc.
- Duckweed: A small floating aquatic plant.
- Duodenal juice: The secretion of the duodenum, important in digestion.
- Dynein: A motor protein that moves along microtubules in cells.
- Dysbiosis: An imbalance in the microbial ecology of a system.
- Dysplasia: Abnormal growth or development of cells or tissues.
- Decalcification: The removal of calcium from bones or teeth.
- Decarboxylation: The removal of a carboxyl group from a molecule.
- Decidua: The endometrial lining of the uterus during pregnancy.
- Decussate: To cross or intersect, especially in pairs.
- Defenestration: The process of removing or ejecting cellular contents.
- Degeneracy: In genetics, the property of having multiple codons encode a single amino acid.
- Dehiscence: The splitting along a built-in line of weakness in a plant structure.
- Delocalization: In chemistry, the spreading of electron density over more than one atom.
- Deme: A local population of organisms of one species.
- Dendrochronology: The science of dating events and variations in the environment by studying tree rings.
- Dendrogram: A tree diagram used to illustrate the arrangement of clusters.
- Denitrification: The microbial conversion of nitrate to nitrogen gas.
- Dentate: Having a toothed edge.
- Dentin: The main, calcified part of a tooth, beneath the enamel.
- Deoxyribose: A sugar derived from ribose by replacing a hydroxyl group with hydrogen.
- Depolarization: A reduction in the difference in voltage between the inside and outside of a cell.
- Dermal tissue: The protective outer covering of plants.
- Desiccation: The process of drying out.
- Detritus: Dead organic material.
- Deuteromycota: A group of fungi with no known sexual stage.
- Devonian: A geologic period and system of the Paleozoic era.
- Diagenesis: The physical and chemical changes occurring during the conversion of sediment to sedimentary rock.
- Dialysis: The separation of particles in a liquid on the basis of differences in their ability to pass through a membrane.
- Diamagnetic: A substance not retaining magnetic properties in the absence of an externally applied magnetic field.
- Diastase: An enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of starch into maltose.
- Diatom: A major group of algae, and among the most common types of phytoplankton.
- Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT): A synthetic insecticide.
- Dicotyledon: A class of angiosperms that have two embryonic seed leaves.
Biology Words That Start With E
- Ear: The organ of hearing and balance in vertebrates.
- Ecdysis: The process of shedding an outer layer of skin, exoskeleton, or other body covering.
- Echinoderm: A member of the phylum Echinodermata, which includes sea stars, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers.
- Ecological niche: The specific role that an organism plays in its environment.
- Ecological pyramid: A diagram that shows the relationship between different trophic levels in an ecosystem.
- Ecological succession: The process of change in an ecosystem over time.
- Ecosystem: A community of organisms and their environment that interact with each other.
- Ectoderm: The outermost layer of cells in an embryo, which develops into the skin, nervous system, and other tissues.
- Ectotherm: An organism that cannot regulate its body temperature internally and relies on external sources of heat.
- Elastic cartilage: A type of cartilage that is found in the external ear and other parts of the body.
- Electron transport chain: A series of chemical reactions that transfer electrons from one molecule to another, releasing energy that is used to generate ATP.
- Embalming: The process of preserving a dead body by treating it with chemicals.
- Embryo: The early stage of development of a multicellular organism, from fertilization to the time of birth or hatching.
- Embryology: The study of the development of embryos.
- Embryonic stem cells: Stem cells that are derived from embryos.
- Emulsify: To break down large fat droplets into smaller droplets that can be suspended in water.
- Endemism: The restricted distribution of a species or other taxonomic group to a particular geographic area.
- Endergonic reaction: A chemical reaction that requires energy to proceed.
- Endocrine gland: A gland that secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream.
- Endocrine system: The system of glands that produce and secrete hormones.
- Endocytosis: The process by which cells take in substances from the extracellular environment by engulfing them.
- Endoderm: The innermost layer of cells in an embryo, which develops into the lining of the digestive tract, respiratory tract, and other tissues.
- Endoplasmic reticulum: A network of membranes within cells that is involved in the synthesis, transport, and modification of proteins and lipids.
- Endoskeleton: The internal skeleton of an organism, such as the skeleton of a vertebrate.
- Endosymbiotic theory: The theory that mitochondria and chloroplasts evolved from symbiotic bacteria that were engulfed by early eukaryotic cells.
- Endothelium: The layer of cells that lines the inside of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels.
- Energy pyramid: A diagram that shows the amount of energy that is transferred from one trophic level to another in an ecosystem.
- Enzyme substrate complex: The temporary association of an enzyme with its substrate, which is the molecule that the enzyme acts on.
- Epistasis: A type of gene interaction in which one gene can mask the expression of another gene.
- Epithelial tissue: A type of tissue that covers the body surface and lines internal organs and cavities.
- Equilibrium constant: A mathematical expression that describes the ratio of the concentrations of products to reactants in a chemical equilibrium.
- Esophagus: The muscular tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.
- Essential amino acids: Amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet.
- Eubacteria: A type of bacteria that has a cell wall made of peptidoglycan.
- Euchromatin: The loosely packed form of chromatin that is found in the active regions of chromosomes.
- Eukaryote: An organism that has cells with a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.
- Eukaryotic cell: A cell that has a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.
- Euphoria: A feeling of intense happiness, well-being, and elation.
- Euthymic: A state of normal mental health and emotional stability.
- Excretion: The process by which the body removes waste products from the blood and tissues.
- Excretion system: The system of organs that removes waste products from the body.
- Exocrine gland: A gland that secretes its products through ducts onto the body surface or into an internal body cavity.
- Exocytosis: The process by which cells release substances from their interior by fusing vesicles with the cell membrane.
- Extensible element: A type of protein that can be stretched or extended without breaking.
- Extinction: The permanent loss of a species from the Earth.
- Extremophile: An organism that can live in extreme environments, such as high temperatures, high acidity, or high salinity.
- Eutherian mammal: A mammal that gives birth to live young that are relatively well-developed.
- Evolution: The process by which populations of organisms change over time through the process of natural selection.
- Excitatory postsynaptic potential: A type of postsynaptic potential that makes a neuron more likely to fire an action potential.
- Exocrine pancreas: The part of the pancreas that secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine.
- Excretory product: A substance that is removed from the body by the excretory system.
- Existentialism: A philosophical movement that emphasizes the individual’s freedom and responsibility to create their own meaning in life.
- Extinction event: A sudden and widespread loss of species.
- Eye: The organ of sight in vertebrates.
- Ecology: The study of the interactions between organisms and their environment.
- Embryo sac: The female gametophyte in flowering plants.
- Endothelin: A hormone that constricts blood vessels.
- Endoplasmic reticulum stress: A condition that occurs when the endoplasmic reticulum is overloaded with proteins.
- Epigenetics: The study of changes in gene expression that are not caused by changes in the DNA sequence.
- Epinephrine: A hormone that is released in response to stress and helps to prepare the body for fight or flight.
- Equilibrium: The state of balance in a system.
- Erythrocyte: A red blood cell.
- Estrone: A female sex hormone.
- Estrogen: A female sex hormone.
- Ethnobotany: The study of the relationship between plants and people.
- Ethology: The study of animal behavior.
- Eukaryotic gene: A gene that is found in a eukaryotic cell.
- Evolvability: The ability of a population to change over time.
- Exaptation: A trait that is originally evolved for one purpose but is later co-opted for another purpose.
- Excitation-contraction coupling: The process by which electrical signals in the muscle cell trigger the contraction of the muscle fiber.
- Exocytosis-vesicle fusion: The process by which vesicles fuse with the cell membrane and release their contents into the extracellular environment.
- Exogenous: Originating from outside the body.
- Exogenous gene: A gene that is not found in the organism’s genome but is introduced from another organism.
- Exogenous hormone: A hormone that is produced by another organism and introduced into the body.
- Exogenous virus: A virus that is not found in the organism’s genome but is introduced from another organism.
- Exonuclease: An enzyme that breaks down DNA or RNA nucleotides from the end of the molecule.
- Expressivity: The degree to which a gene is expressed.
- Extant: Currently existing.
- Extrinsic pathway: One of the two pathways by which blood clots are formed.
- Extrinsic ribosome: A ribosome that is not attached to the endoplasmic reticulum.
- Eyespot: A light-sensitive organelle found in some protists.
Biology Words That Start With F
- Fermentation: A metabolic process that produces energy in the absence of oxygen, often resulting in the production of alcohol or lactic acid.
- Fertilization: The fusion of male and female gametes to form a zygote.
- Fetus: A developing mammal or other viviparous vertebrate after the embryonic stage and before birth.
- Flagellum: A whip-like structure that allows some cells, like sperm and certain bacteria, to move.
- Flora: The plants of a particular region or period.
- Fauna: The animals of a particular region or period.
- Follicle: A small secretory cavity or sac, especially one containing an egg in the ovaries of mammals.
- Fungi: A kingdom of spore-producing organisms, including mushrooms, yeasts, and molds.
- Foramen: An opening or hole, especially in bones.
- Fovea: A small depression in the retina of the eye where visual acuity is highest.
- Femur: The thigh bone, the longest bone in the human body.
- Fission: A type of asexual reproduction where an organism divides into two or more organisms.
- Fitness: In evolutionary biology, the ability of an organism to survive and reproduce in its environment.
- Flavonoid: A group of polyphenolic compounds found in plants, often responsible for colors.
- Frond: The leaf or leaf-like part of a fern.
- Fimbriae: Finger-like projections at the end of fallopian tubes or on the surface of some bacteria.
- Filtration: The process of filtering substances from a solution or mixture.
- Fibroblast: A cell that produces collagen and other fibers, playing a crucial role in wound healing.
- Fibrosis: The thickening or scarring of connective tissue, often as a result of injury.
- Fluke: A parasitic flatworm, or an unexpected stroke of luck.
- Folivore: An herbivore that specializes in eating leaves.
- Forbs: Flowering plants that are not graminoids (grasses, sedges, and rushes).
- Forebrain: The anterior part of the brain, including the cerebrum and diencephalon.
- Founder effect: A decrease in genetic variation caused by a small number of individuals establishing a new population.
- Frugivore: An animal that primarily eats raw fruits, succulent fruit-like vegetables, roots, shoots, nuts, and seeds.
- Fundus: The base or deepest part of an organ, e.g., the upper part of the stomach.
- Fomite: An inanimate object that can transmit infectious agents.
- Fossorial: Adapted to digging and living underground.
- Fenestration: The arrangement and design of windows in a building, or a small opening or perforation in an organ.
- Fibrin: A protein involved in the clotting of blood.
- Fibrinogen: A soluble protein present in blood plasma, from which fibrin is produced by the action of the enzyme thrombin.
- Flaccid: Lacking firmness, resilience, or muscle tone.
- Fluke: A flatworm parasite that typically has suckers and hooks for attachment to the host.
- Fluorescence: The emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light or other electromagnetic radiation.
- Fomite: Any inanimate object or substance capable of carrying infectious organisms.
- Foraging: The act of searching for and obtaining food.
- Foregut: The anterior part of the alimentary canal, from the mouth to the duodenum.
- Foveola: A tiny pit or depression, especially one in the center of the fovea of the retina.
- Free radical: An uncharged molecule with an unpaired valence electron, often highly reactive.
- Freeman, Walter: An American physician known for his work on the lobotomy.
- Frondescence: The process or time of putting forth leaves.
- Fruiting body: The spore-producing organ of a fungus.
- Functional group: A group of atoms responsible for the characteristic reactions of a particular compound.
- Funiculus: A cord-like structure, especially the part of a spermatozoon that connects the head with the tail.
- Furrow: A trench, groove, or wrinkle in an organ or tissue.
- Fusiform: Tapering at both ends; spindle-shaped.
- Fusion: The process or result of joining two or more things together to form a single entity.
- Futuyma, Douglas: An evolutionary biologist known for his research and textbooks on evolutionary biology.
- Fynbos: A type of vegetation found in South Africa, characterized by a mix of evergreen shrub-like plants.
- Fytogeography: The branch of biogeography that studies the distribution of plants.
Biology Words That Start With G
- Gene: A unit of heredity that is transferred from a parent to offspring and determines some characteristic of the offspring.
- Genome: The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
- Genotype: The genetic constitution of an individual organism.
- Glycolysis: The breakdown of glucose by enzymes, releasing energy and pyruvic acid.
- Golgi apparatus: A complex of vesicles and folded membranes within the cytoplasm, involved in secretion and intracellular transport.
- Gamete: A mature haploid male or female germ cell that is able to unite with another of the opposite sex in sexual reproduction.
- Germ layer: Any of the three layers of cells differentiated in embryos, comprising the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm.
- Gland: An organ in the body that synthesizes substances (like hormones) for release into the bloodstream or into cavities inside the body or its outer surface.
- Glycogen: A substance deposited in bodily tissues as a store of carbohydrates.
- Guanine: One of the four main nucleobases found in the nucleic acids DNA and RNA.
- Gut flora: The complex community of microorganisms living in the digestive tracts of humans and other animals.
- Gallbladder: A small organ where bile is stored, before it is released into the small intestine.
- Gastrulation: The phase early in the embryonic development of most animals, during which the single-layered blastula is reorganized into a multilayered structure.
- Gibberellin: A plant hormone that regulates growth and influences various developmental processes.
- Gingiva: The gum tissue surrounding the teeth.
- Glial cells: Cells in the nervous system that support, nourish, and protect neurons.
- Gluconeogenesis: The formation of glucose, especially by the liver, from non-carbohydrate sources like amino acids.
- Glucagon: A hormone formed in the pancreas that promotes the breakdown of glycogen to glucose in the liver.
- Glutamate: A salt or ester of glutamic acid, involved in the Krebs cycle.
- Glycoprotein: Proteins that contain oligosaccharide chains covalently attached to their polypeptide side-chains.
- Gonad: An organ that produces gametes; a testis or ovary.
- Gravitropism: A coordinated process of differential growth by a plant in response to gravity pulling on it.
- Guard cells: Specialized cells in the epidermis of leaves, stems, and other organs that are used to control gas exchange.
- Guttation: The exudation of drops of xylem sap on the tips or edges of leaves of some vascular plants.
- Gymnosperm: A group of seed-producing plants that includes conifers, cycads, and ginkgo.
- Gynoecium: The female parts of a flower, comprising the ovaries, style, and stigma.
- Gyrus: A ridge on the cerebral cortex.
- Gastropod: A large class of mollusks, including snails and slugs.
- Genomics: The branch of molecular biology concerned with the structure, function, evolution, and mapping of genomes.
- Germ cell: A cell containing half the number of chromosomes of a somatic cell and able to unite with one from the opposite sex to form a new individual.
- Germination: The process by which a plant grows from a seed.
- Gibbosity: A swelling or protuberance.
- Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums.
- Glioma: A type of tumor that starts in the brain or spine.
- Globulin: Any of several families of proteins or glycoproteins.
- Glomerulus: A cluster of nerve endings, spores, or small blood vessels.
- Glycosis: The enzymatic breakdown of a carbohydrate.
- Gnotobiotics: The study of organisms while ensuring that they are not contaminated by other organisms.
- Granum: A stack of thylakoids in the chloroplasts of plant cells.
- Gregarious: Describing the tendency of certain animals to live in groups.
- Growth factor: A substance, like a vitamin or hormone, that is required for the stimulation of growth in living cells.
- Guano: A type of fertilizer made up of the excrement of seabirds and bats.
- Gynandromorph: An organism that contains both male and female characteristics.
- Gynoecium: The female reproductive organs in a flower.
- Genetic drift: Variation in the relative frequency of different genotypes in a small population.
- Geneticist: A biologist who studies genetics.
- Geniculate: Bent abruptly, like a knee.
- Genitalia: The organs of the reproductive system.
- Genus: A rank in the classification of organisms, below family and above species.
- Gestation: The process of carrying or being carried in the womb between conception and birth.
Biology Words That Start With H
- Haploid: Cells that have a single set of chromosomes, like gametes.
- Helix: A type of spiral structure, like the double helix of DNA.
- Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
- Herbivore: An organism that primarily eats plants.
- Heterozygous: Having two different alleles for a particular gene.
- Histology: The study of the microscopic structure of tissues.
- Hormone: A signaling molecule produced by glands in multicellular organisms.
- Hybrid: An offspring resulting from the cross between parents of different species or sub-species.
- Hydrolysis: A chemical process in which a molecule is cleaved into two parts by the addition of a water molecule.
- Hypothalamus: A region of the brain responsible for the production of many of the body’s essential hormones.
- Homeostasis: The tendency of the body to maintain a stable internal environment.
- Hapten: A small molecule that can elicit an immune response only when attached to a larger carrier.
- Hemostasis: The process of stopping the flow of blood.
- Heterotroph: An organism that cannot produce its own food and instead takes nutrition from other sources of organic carbon.
- Histamine: A compound released by cells in response to injury and allergic reactions, causing contraction of smooth muscle and dilation of capillaries.
- Homologous: Having the same relation, relative position, or structure.
- Hyphae: The branching filaments that make up the mycelium of a fungus.
- Hematopoiesis: The production of blood cells and platelets.
- Hepatic: Relating to the liver.
- Holotype: A single physical example of an organism, known to have been used when the species was formally described.
- Humerus: The bone of the upper arm or forelimb.
- Hybridization: The process of interbreeding individuals from genetically distinct populations.
- Hydrophilic: Attracted to water.
- Hydrophobic: Repelling water.
- Hypoxia: A condition in which the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply.
- Helicase: An enzyme that helps unwind the DNA double helix during DNA replication.
- Hemolysis: The rupture or destruction of red blood cells.
- Heterochromatin: A tightly packed form of DNA, which comes in multiple varieties.
- Hibernation: A state of inactivity and metabolic depression in endotherms.
- Homolog: One of a pair of chromosomes having corresponding loci.
- Hyaluronic acid: A substance that is naturally present in the human body and is found mainly in the fluids in the eyes and joints.
- Hydrocarbon: An organic compound consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon.
- Hyperplasia: An increase in the amount of organic tissue that results from cell proliferation.
- Hypertonic: A solution with higher osmotic pressure than another solution.
- Hypothesis: A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.
- Hemocyte: A blood cell.
- Hepatocyte: A cell of the main tissue in the liver.
- Herpetology: The study of amphibians and reptiles.
- Heterocyst: A specialized nitrogen-fixing cell in some filamentous cyanobacteria.
- Histocompatibility: The compatibility between the tissues of different individuals, so that they can be grafted without rejection.
- Holobiont: An assemblage of a host and the many other species living in or around it.
- Homoplasmy: The presence of the same form of a particular DNA sequence in every copy within a single cell or organism.
- Hydrolase: An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of a compound.
- Hypermutation: An unusually high frequency of mutations.
- Hypodermis: An epidermal layer of cells that secretes an overlying chitinous cuticle, as in arthropods.
- Hypophysis: Another term for the pituitary gland.
- Hypotonic: A solution with lower osmotic pressure than another solution.
- Heliotropism: The directional growth of a plant in response to sunlight.
- Hemizygous: Having only a single copy of a gene instead of the customary two copies.
- Heterokaryon: A fungal cell which has two or more genetically different nuclei.
Biology Words That Start With I
- Immunology: The study of the immune system and its responses to pathogens.
- Invertebrate: An animal lacking a backbone, like insects, worms, and mollusks.
- Intron: A segment of DNA that is transcribed, but removed from the mRNA sequence before translation.
- Isotope: Variants of a particular chemical element which differ in neutron number.
- Insulin: A hormone produced in the pancreas that regulates the amount of glucose in the blood.
- Innervation: The distribution of nerve fibers to an organ or body region.
- Ingestion: The process of taking food, drink, or another substance into the body by swallowing or absorbing it.
- Inflammation: A protective response involving immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators to remove harmful stimuli.
- Inhibitor: A molecule that binds to an enzyme and decreases its activity.
- Intercellular: Situated between cells.
- Interstitial: Relating to or situated in the small, narrow spaces between tissues or parts of an organ.
- Inoculate: To introduce (cells or organisms) into a culture medium.
- Innate: Inborn; natural, especially referring to immunity that is present without prior exposure to a pathogen.
- Isomer: Molecules with the same molecular formula but different structural formulas.
- Inflorescence: The arrangement of flowers on a plant.
- Imprinting: A rapid learning process that takes place early in the life of a social animal and establishes a behavior pattern.
- In vivo: Processes or reactions occurring in a living organism.
- In vitro: Processes or reactions occurring outside a living organism, typically in a test tube.
- Iris: The colored part of the eye, controlling the size of the pupil.
- Ichthyology: The study of fishes.
- Ileum: The third and final part of the small intestine.
- Islets of Langerhans: Cell clusters in the pancreas that produce insulin.
- Integument: A natural covering, like skin or a shell.
- Interphase: The resting phase between successive mitotic divisions of a cell.
- Invasive species: Plants, animals, or pathogens that are non-native to an ecosystem and may cause harm.
- Instinct: An innate behavior that an organism inherits.
- Insectivore: An animal that feeds on insects.
- Innate immunity: The defenses against infection that can be activated immediately once a pathogen attacks.
- Immunosuppression: Reduction of the activation or efficacy of the immune system.
- Immunoglobulin: A protein with antibody activity; examples include IgA, IgG, and IgM.
- Isozyme: Enzymes that differ in amino acid sequence but catalyze the same chemical reaction.
- Intercalated discs: Microscopic identifying features of cardiac muscle.
- Innervate: To supply (an organ or other body part) with nerves.
- Inference: A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning.
- Infundibulum: A funnel-shaped cavity or structure, especially in the heart or brain.
- Inoculum: Microbes that are introduced into a culture medium to initiate growth.
- Insecta: The class of animals that are insects.
- Interferon: A protein produced by cells in response to being infected by a virus and that provides short term protection.
- Intestine: The part of the alimentary canal between the stomach and the anus.
- Intron: A segment of a DNA or RNA molecule that does not code for proteins and interrupts the sequence of genes.
- Invagination: The action or process of being turned inside out or folded back on itself to form a cavity or pouch.
- Ion: An atom or molecule with a net electric charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons.
- Iridescence: The phenomenon of certain surfaces appearing to change color as the angle of view or the angle of illumination changes.
- Isogamy: A form of sexual reproduction that involves gametes of similar morphology.
- Isolation: The process or fact of isolating or being isolated, often used in the context of preventing the spread of disease.
- Isotonic: Having the same osmotic pressure as a particular fluid, typically a body fluid or intracellular fluid.
- Iteroparity: Reproductive strategy of producing offspring multiple times over a lifetime.
- Iodine: A chemical element often used as a disinfectant or a trace element essential for proper thyroid function.
- Illumina sequencing: A sequencing method developed by Illumina, Inc. that involves fragmenting DNA, amplifying fragments on a surface, and then sequencing each fragment.
- Inoculation loop: A simple tool used mainly by microbiologists to retrieve an inoculum from a culture.
Biology Words That Start With J
- Jejunum: The part of the small intestine between the duodenum and ileum.
- Junction: A point where two or more things are joined, such as a tight junction in cells.
- Juxtaglomerular apparatus: A system that regulates the function of nephrons in the kidney.
- Jurassic: A geologic period and system that spanned 56 million years from the end of the Triassic Period to the beginning of the Cretaceous Period.
- Juxtacrine: A type of cell signaling in which the two cells in direct contact.
- Joint: The location at which two or more bones make contact.
- Juvenile: An individual organism that has not yet reached its adult form, sexual maturity, or size.
- Jasmonic acid: A type of plant hormone involved in tendril coiling, flower development, and fruit ripening.
- Jacobson’s organ: An auxiliary olfactory sense organ found in many animals; also known as the vomeronasal organ.
- Jet lag: A physiological condition resulting from alterations to the body’s circadian rhythms due to rapid long-distance trans-meridian travel.
- Joule: A unit of energy in the International System of Units, used to quantify the amount of energy in biological systems.
- Jumping gene: Another term for a transposon, a DNA sequence that can change its position within a genome.
- Juxtamembrane: The region of a protein that is directly adjacent to the membrane.
- Juxtamedullary: Referring to certain nephrons in the kidney that are close to the medulla.
- Juxtanuclear: Located near the nucleus, often referring to certain cellular structures or inclusions.
- Juxtacrine signaling: A type of cell signaling mediated by direct contact between neighboring cells.
- J-chain: A protein component of some antibodies that helps to polymerize them, especially in mucosal secretions.
- Jejunal: Relating to the jejunum, the middle part of the small intestine.
- Jasmonate: A type of plant hormone involved in various parts of plant development and defense.
- Junctional rhythm: A heart rhythm that originates from the atrioventricular node.
- Juxta-articular: Situated close to a joint.
- Juxtacellular: Situated adjacent to a cell.
- Juxtaglomerular cells: Cells around the glomerulus in the kidney that release renin.
- Juxtavascular: Located adjacent to a blood vessel.
- Juxtacortical: Located immediately adjacent to the cortex of an organ.
- Juxtaluminal: Situated next to the lumen of a structure.
- Juxtaphrenic: Located near the diaphragm.
- Juxtagastric: Situated close to the stomach.
- Juxtavesical: Located adjacent to the urinary bladder.
- Juxtatubular: Situated close to a tubule, often referring to structures in the kidney.
- Juxtaspinal: Located adjacent to the vertebral column.
- Juxtatendinous: Situated close to a tendon.
- Juxtaneural: Located near a nerve.
- Juxtaoral: Situated close to the mouth.
- Juxtaepiphyseal: Located near an epiphysis, the end part of a long bone.
- Juxtarenal: Situated close to the kidney.
- Juxtaposition: The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
- Juxtacardiac: Located adjacent to the heart.
- Juxtaepidermal: Situated immediately beneath the epidermis.
- Juxtamembranous: Located close to a membrane.
- Juxtanodal: Situated close to a node, especially in the context of nerve cells.
- Juxtapapillary: Located adjacent to the papilla, such as in the context of the optic nerve.
- Juxtaosseous: Situated close to a bone.
- Juxtapyloric: Located near the pylorus, the part of the stomach that connects to the duodenum.
- Juxta-articular myxoma: A rare, benign tumor of the soft tissues near a joint.
- Juxtapositional: Relating to the act or placement of two things (such as genes) side by side.
- Juxtacrine interaction: A type of cell-cell interaction in which a cell induces changes in a neighboring cell without any direct contact.
- Juxtafoveal: Located near the fovea of the eye.
- Juxtapositioning: The act or placement of two things side by side.
- Juxtavertebral: Situated close to the vertebral column.
Biology Words That Start With K
- Karyotype: The number and appearance of chromosomes in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell.
- Keratin: A protein that protects epithelial cells from damage and is the key structural material making up hair, nails, and the outer layer of skin.
- Kinase: An enzyme that transfers phosphate groups from high-energy donor molecules to specific substrates.
- Kinesis: A movement that is a response to a stimulus but is not oriented with respect to the source of stimulation.
- Kinetochore: A protein structure on chromatids where the spindle fibers attach during cell division.
- Kingdom: A taxonomic rank that is composed of smaller groups called phyla (or divisions in plants).
- Krebs cycle: A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy; also known as the citric acid cycle.
- Karyokinesis: The division of a cell’s nucleus during mitosis.
- Ketone: An organic compound with a carbonyl group bonded to two hydrocarbon groups.
- Kilocalorie: A unit of energy equal to 1,000 calories.
- Kleptoparasitism: A form of feeding in which one animal takes prey or other food from another that has caught, collected, or otherwise prepared the food.
- Karyogamy: The fusion of two nuclei within a cell, especially as the second stage of syngamy.
- Keratinocyte: A cell that manufactures and stores the protein keratin.
- Ketogenesis: The production of ketone bodies.
- Kidney: A pair of organs in the abdominal cavity that filter waste from the blood and produce urine.
- Kinetoplast: A network of circular DNA inside a large mitochondrion that contains many copies of the genome.
- Karyolysis: The dissolution or degeneration of a cell nucleus.
- Keratocyte: A type of cell in the cornea.
- Ketosis: A metabolic state characterized by raised levels of ketone bodies in the body tissues.
- Kilobase: A unit of length for DNA fragments equal to 1,000 nucleotides.
- Kleptoplasty: The absorption and incorporation of chloroplasts from algae into the cells of a host organism.
- Karyoplasm: The protoplasm of a nucleus; nucleoplasm.
- Keratoplasty: Surgical repair of the cornea.
- Ketosteroid: Steroids that contain a ketone group.
- Kinesiology: The study of the mechanics of body movements.
- Kinetochores: Protein structures located on the centromeres where spindle fibers attach during cell division.
- Karyorrhexis: The destructive fragmentation of the nucleus of a dying cell.
- Keratosis: A growth of keratin on the skin or on mucous membranes.
- Ketotetrose: A four-carbon ketose sugar.
- Kilodalton (kDa): A unit of mass equal to 1,000 daltons, often used to express the molecular weight of proteins.
- Kleptogenesis: A form of asexual reproduction that requires mating with another species.
- Kappa: A type of light chain found in many immunoglobulins.
- Keratolysis: The breaking down or shedding of the outer layer of the skin.
- Ketoadipic pathway: A series of enzymatic reactions used by bacteria and fungi to utilize aromatic compounds as a source of carbon.
- Kinesthetic: Relating to a person’s awareness of the position and movement of the parts of the body.
- Kinetosome: A cellular organelle from which the cilia and flagella arise.
- Karyosome: A compact mass of chromatin in the nucleus of a cell.
- Keratoconjunctivitis: Inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva.
- Ketopentose: A five-carbon ketose sugar.
- Kinesis (in genetics): The movement of a chromosome during cell division.
- Kinetoplastid: A group of flagellated protists, including the species that cause African sleeping sickness.
- Karyosystematics: The study of karyotypes in taxonomy and evolutionary research.
- Keratoderma: A condition characterized by thickened skin on the palms and soles.
- Ketoacidosis: A high concentration of ketone bodies, often caused by uncontrolled diabetes.
- Kinetic energy: The energy of an object due to its motion.
- Kinetin: A type of cytokinin, a class of plant hormone.
- Karyotypic: Pertaining to the characteristics or features of a karyotype.
- Keratolytic: Causing the softening and breaking down of skin.
- Ketohexose: A six-carbon ketose sugar, like fructose.
- Kisspeptin: A protein that regulates the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone.
Biology Words That Start With L
- Lysosome: A cell organelle containing enzymes that digest particles and that disintegrate the cell after its death.
- Lipid: A type of organic molecule that is greasy to the touch, insoluble in water, and soluble in alcohol; includes fats and oils.
- Leukocyte: A white blood cell.
- Larva: The immature, wingless, and often wormlike feeding form that hatches from the egg of many insects.
- Ligand: A molecule that binds specifically to another molecule, usually a larger one.
- Lichen: A composite organism made up of a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium living together symbiotically.
- Locus: The specific location or position of a gene’s DNA sequence on a chromosome.
- Lymphocyte: A type of white blood cell that is involved in the immune response.
- Ligase: An enzyme that facilitates the joining of DNA strands together.
- Limbic system: A set of brain structures responsible for emotion, memory, and behavior.
- Lumen: The inside space of a tubular structure, such as an artery or intestine.
- Larviparous: Giving birth to live larvae, especially certain insects.
- Leucine: An essential amino acid used in the biosynthesis of proteins.
- Lysis: The disintegration of a cell by rupture of the cell wall or membrane.
- Lytic cycle: The cycle of viral replication that results in the destruction of the infected cell.
- Lactase: An enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.
- Lactation: The secretion of milk by the mammary glands.
- Lateral: Relating to the sides of an organism or structure.
- Ligament: A short band of tough, flexible tissue that connects two bones or cartilages or holds together a joint.
- Lymph: A colorless fluid containing white blood cells, which bathes the tissues and drains through the lymphatic system.
- Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system.
- Lipase: An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of fats.
- Liposome: A tiny bubble made out of the same material as a cell membrane that can be filled with drugs or other substances.
- Luciferase: An enzyme that produces bioluminescence, often used in research.
- Luteinizing hormone (LH): A hormone produced by gonadotropic cells in the anterior pituitary gland.
- Lysozyme: An enzyme that breaks down bacterial cell walls, found notably in tears and saliva.
- Lactobacillus: A type of bacteria used in the production of yogurt and other fermented foods.
- Lactose: A sugar present in milk, consisting of glucose and galactose.
- Larvicide: A substance used to kill larvae.
- Leptin: A hormone that regulates energy balance by inhibiting hunger.
- Lignin: A complex organic polymer found in the cell walls of many plants, making them rigid.
- Limb: An arm, leg, or wing.
- Linnaean: Relating to the system of taxonomic classification and binomial nomenclature originated by Carl Linnaeus.
- Lipogenesis: The metabolic formation of fat.
- Lipopolysaccharide (LPS): A molecule found on the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.
- Locus: A fixed position on a chromosome where a particular gene or genetic marker is located.
- Log phase: The period in a bacterial growth curve when growth is most rapid.
- Lumen: The central cavity of a tubular or other hollow structure in an organism or cell.
- Luteal phase: The latter phase of the menstrual cycle or estrous cycle.
- Lytic: Relating to or causing the breakdown of cells or lysis.
- Lymphadenopathy: Disease or swelling of the lymph nodes.
- Lymphangiogenesis: The formation of lymphatic vessels.
- Lymphostasis: The stagnation of the flow of lymph.
- Lyophilization: Another term for freeze-drying.
- Lysogenic cycle: The cycle in which a virus embeds its DNA into the DNA of the host cell and is replicated along with the host cell’s DNA.
- Lysogeny: The state of being lysogenic.
- Lysozyme: An enzyme found in saliva and sweat and tears that destroys the cell walls of certain bacteria.
- Lytic agent: A substance that causes lysis.
- Lytotropic: Having an affinity for certain solvents.
- Lyotropic series: A series of ions or molecules arranged in order of increasing or decreasing lyotropic action.
Biology Words That Start With M
- Mitosis: The process by which a eukaryotic cell separates its chromosomes into two identical sets, resulting in two daughter nuclei.
- Meiosis: A type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes by half, producing four haploid cells.
- Mutation: A change in the DNA sequence of a gene or chromosome.
- Mitochondria: Organelles in eukaryotic cells responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration.
- Membrane: A thin layer of tissue or molecules that separates cells or cellular compartments.
- Molecule: A group of atoms bonded together.
- Muscle: Tissue composed of fibers capable of contracting to effect bodily movement.
- Melanin: A pigment responsible for the color of skin, hair, and eyes in animals.
- Microorganism: A microscopic organism, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Microbiome: The community of microorganisms living in a particular environment or habitat.
- Monomer: A molecule that can be bonded to other identical molecules to form a polymer.
- Macrophage: A type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris, foreign substances, and pathogens.
- Morphology: The study of the forms and structures of organisms.
- Mesophyll: The inner tissue of a leaf, containing many chloroplasts.
- Microtubule: A cylindrical structure in the cytoplasm involved in cell shape, intracellular transport, and cell division.
- Mendelian: Relating to the patterns of inheritance described by Gregor Mendel.
- Metabolism: The set of chemical reactions that occur within a cell to maintain life.
- Microscopy: The use of a microscope to view small-scale structures.
- Mycology: The study of fungi.
- Myelin: A fatty substance that surrounds and insulates the axons of some neurons.
- Mucus: A slimy substance produced by mucous membranes and glands for lubrication and protection.
- Microbiota: The microorganisms of a particular site, habitat, or geological period.
- Mast cell: A cell filled with basophil granules, found in connective tissue and releasing histamine and other substances during inflammatory and allergic reactions.
- Mesosome: A folded structure in the bacterial cell, thought to be a relic of the eukaryotic mitochondrion.
- Microfilament: A small rod-like structure, about 4–7 nanometers in diameter, present in numbers in the cytoplasm of many eukaryotic cells.
- Mammal: A warm-blooded vertebrate animal distinguished by the possession of hair or fur, females that secrete milk, and (typically) the birth of live young.
- MicroRNA (miRNA): A small non-coding RNA molecule that functions in RNA silencing and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression.
- Metastasis: The spread of cancer cells from the place where they first formed to another part of the body.
- Microbiota: The ensemble of microorganisms inhabiting a particular environment, especially the gut or other body sites.
- Myocardium: The muscular tissue of the heart.
- Mesoderm: The middle layer of an embryo in early development, between the endoderm and ectoderm.
- Mycorrhiza: A symbiotic association between a fungus and the roots of a vascular plant.
- Microvillus (Microvilli): Tiny projections on the surface of some epithelial cells to increase surface area for absorption.
- Monosaccharide: The simplest form of carbohydrate (e.g., glucose, fructose).
- Mollusk: A large phylum of invertebrate animals, including snails, slugs, mussels, and octopuses.
- Mandible: The jaw or jawbone.
- Melatonin: A hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles.
- Megafauna: Large or giant animals, especially from a specific time period or region.
- Mesenchyme: A type of tissue characterized by loosely associated cells.
- Microbiologist: A scientist who studies microorganisms.
- Microenvironment: The immediate small-scale environment of an organism or a part of an organism.
- Mutagen: An agent, such as radiation or a chemical substance, that causes genetic mutation.
- Myosin: A protein associated with actin in muscle contraction and other cellular processes.
- Microbiota transplant: The transfer of microbiota from one individual to another, often used as a treatment for certain diseases.
- Meninges: The three membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord.
- Mucosa: A mucous membrane.
- Myocyte: A muscle cell.
- Mycelium: The vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of fine white filaments.
- Monocot: A type of flowering plant that has one embryonic seed leaf or cotyledon.
- Metazoan: A multicellular animal, especially one with differentiated
Biology Words That Start With N
- Nucleus: The central and most important part of a cell, containing DNA and RNA and responsible for growth and reproduction.
- Neuron: A specialized cell transmitting nerve impulses; a nerve cell.
- Nucleotide: The basic building block of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA.
- Nucleolus: A small dense spherical structure in the nucleus of a cell during interphase.
- Neurotransmitter: Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.
- Nephron: The functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering and excretion.
- Natural selection: The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.
- Neoplasm: A new and abnormal growth of tissue, as a tumor or wart.
- Nitrogen cycle: The series of processes by which nitrogen and its compounds are interconverted in the environment and in living organisms.
- Nucleic acid: Complex organic substances (like DNA and RNA) that store and transmit genetic information.
- Neocortex: The part of the cerebral cortex concerned with sight and hearing in mammals.
- Neurology: The branch of medicine or biology that deals with the anatomy, functions, and organic disorders of nerves and the nervous system.
- Nematode: A worm of the large phylum Nematoda, such as a roundworm or threadworm.
- Neoteny: The retention of juvenile features in the adult animal.
- Niche: The role and position a species has in its environment.
- Nitrogen fixation: The chemical processes by which atmospheric nitrogen is assimilated into organic compounds.
- Neuralgia: Intense, typically intermittent pain along the course of a nerve.
- Neurogenesis: The growth and development of nervous tissue.
- Neurohormone: A hormone produced by nerve cells and secreted into the bloodstream.
- Neuromodulator: A substance other than a neurotransmitter that modifies or regulates nerve cell activities.
- Neuroplasticity: The ability of the nervous system to change its activity in response to intrinsic or extrinsic stimuli.
- Neurotoxin: A poison that acts on the nervous system.
- Nociceptor: A sensory receptor for painful stimuli.
- Nucleosome: A structural unit of a eukaryotic chromosome, consisting of a length of DNA coiled around a core of histones.
- Nutrient: A substance that provides nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life.
- Nanometer: A unit of length equal to one billionth of a meter, used in many areas of science including biology.
- Nasal: Related to the nose.
- Natal: Relating to birth.
- Necrosis: The death of most or all of the cells in an organ or tissue due to disease, injury, or failure of the blood supply.
- Neuroanatomy: The anatomy of the nervous system.
- Neuroblast: A developing nerve cell.
- Neurocyte: Another term for a neuron or nerve cell.
- Neurodegenerative: Relating to or marked by degeneration of nervous tissue.
- Neuroendocrine: Relating to the interactions between the nervous system and the endocrine system.
- Neuroglia: The connective tissue of the nervous system, consisting of several different types of cell associated with neurons.
- Neuroligin: A protein that functions in synapse formation and function.
- Neurolysis: The dissolution or destruction of nerve tissue.
- Neuromuscular: Relating to or affecting both nerves and muscles.
- Neuropathology: The study of disease of nervous system tissue.
- Neuropeptide: A compound that acts as a neurotransmitter or a neuromodulator.
- Neurophysiology: The branch of physiology and neuroscience dealing with the functions of the nervous system.
- Neuropraxia: A temporary loss of motor and sensory function due to blockage of nerve conduction.
- Neuroreceptor: A receptor molecule in the nervous system.
- Neurosecretion: The storage, synthesis, and release of a substance from neurons.
- Neurotransduction: The conversion of a stimulus into an electrical signal in the nervous system.
- Neurotropic: Having an affinity for nerve cells or tissue.
- Neurovascular: Relating to both neural and vascular elements, especially the blood vessels and blood flow of the brain.
- Neutrophil: A type of white blood cell that is often the first to arrive at the site of an infection.
- Nociceptive: Relating to or denoting pain arising from the stimulation of nerve cells.
- Nucleoplasm: The substance of a cell nucleus, especially that not forming the nucleolus.
Biology Words That Start With O
- Organelle: A specialized subunit within a cell that has a specific function.
- Organism: An individual animal, plant, or single-celled life form.
- Osmosis: The movement of solvent molecules through a selectively permeable membrane into a region of higher solute concentration.
- Ovary: The organ in females that produces eggs.
- Ovum: The egg cell produced by the ovary; the female reproductive cell.
- Oxygen: A chemical element essential for life, involved in respiration and many metabolic processes.
- Osteocyte: A bone cell.
- Olfaction: The sense of smell.
- Omnivore: An animal that eats both plants and animals.
- Oncogene: A gene that can transform a cell into a tumor cell.
- Oocyte: A cell in an ovary that may undergo meiotic division to form an ovum.
- Operon: A unit made up of linked genes that is thought to regulate other genes responsible for protein synthesis.
- Opsonin: A molecule that enhances phagocytosis by marking an antigen for an immune response.
- Optic nerve: The nerve that connects the eye to the brain and carries visual information.
- Ornithology: The scientific study of birds.
- Ossification: The natural process of bone formation.
- Otolith: A calcium particle in the inner ear, which is involved in sensory perception and balance.
- Outcrossing: The practice of introducing unrelated genetic material into a breeding line.
- Oviparous: Describing organisms that produce eggs that mature and hatch outside the body.
- Oxidation: A chemical reaction in which a substance loses electrons or is combined with oxygen.
- Oxidative phosphorylation: The metabolic pathway in which cells use enzymes to oxidize nutrients, releasing energy to produce ATP.
- Oxytocin: A hormone released by the pituitary gland that causes increased contraction of the uterus and stimulates the ejection of milk.
- Ozone: A molecule composed of three oxygen atoms, often associated with the Earth’s ozone layer.
- Obligate: Restricted to a particular function or mode of life.
- Oogenesis: The production or development of an ovum.
- Operculum: A structure resembling a lid or a small door, especially an anatomical structure of this kind, such as the gill cover in some fish.
- Optogenetics: A biological technique that involves the use of light to control cells within living tissue.
- Oral: Relating to the mouth.
- Organogenesis: The process of organ formation during development.
- Ortholog: A gene in different species that evolved from a common ancestral gene by speciation.
- Osmoregulation: The maintenance of constant osmotic pressure in the fluids of an organism.
- Osteoblast: A cell that secretes the matrix for bone formation.
- Osteoclast: A cell that absorbs bone tissue during growth and healing.
- Osteogenesis: The formation of bone.
- Oviposition: The action of laying eggs.
- Oxalate: A salt or ester of oxalic acid.
- Oxidoreductase: An enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of electrons from one molecule to another.
- Oxygenate: To supply, treat, charge, or enrich with oxygen.
- Oxyhemoglobin: Hemoglobin combined with oxygen, found in oxygenated blood.
- Ozonolysis: The cleavage of an unsaturated organic compound with ozone.
- Oblique: Neither parallel nor at a right angle to a specified or implied line; slanting.
- Oblong: Having an elongated shape, as a rectangle or an oval.
- Obligate aerobe: An organism that requires oxygen to grow.
- Obligate anaerobe: An organism that cannot grow in the presence of oxygen.
- Occipital: Relating to the occiput, the back area of the head.
- Ocular: Relating to the eye or vision.
- Odontoblast: A cell in the pulp of a tooth that produces dentin.
- Oligodendrocyte: A type of neuroglia whose main function is to provide support to axons and produce the myelin sheath.
- Oligonucleotide: A short nucleic acid polymer, typically with twenty or fewer bases.
- Oligotrophic: Describing a body of water with low nutrient and organic material content, which can support only limited plant life.
Biology Words That Start With P
- Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the aid of chlorophyll pigments.
- Protein: Large molecules composed of one or more chains of amino acids in a specific order; required for the structure, function, and regulation of the body’s cells, tissues, and organs.
- Prokaryote: A microscopic single-celled organism that lacks a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles; includes bacteria and archaea.
- Plasma: The liquid component of blood in which cells are suspended.
- Phylum: A taxonomic rank below kingdom and above class.
- Pathogen: A bacterium, virus, or other microorganisms that can cause disease.
- Parasite: An organism that lives in or on another organism (its host) and benefits by deriving nutrients at the host’s expense.
- Phagocytosis: The process by which a cell engulfs particles such as bacteria, other microorganisms, aged cells, or cellular debris.
- Pheromone: A chemical substance produced and released into the environment by an animal, affecting the behavior or physiology of others of its species.
- Plasmid: A small DNA molecule within a cell that is physically separated from chromosomal DNA and can replicate independently.
- Polymerase: An enzyme that synthesizes long chains or polymers of nucleic acids.
- Polypeptide: A linear organic polymer consisting of a large number of amino-acid residues bonded together in a chain.
- Permeability: The quality of a membrane that allows substances to pass through it.
- Pigment: A molecule that absorbs certain wavelengths of visible light and gives color to tissues.
- Pineal gland: A small endocrine gland in the brain that produces melatonin.
- Prophase: The first stage of cell division, during which the chromosomes become visible and the nuclear envelope breaks down.
- Pseudopod: A temporary protrusion of the surface of an amoeboid cell for movement and feeding.
- Phenotype: The set of observable characteristics of an individual resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.
- Polygenic: Traits controlled by two or more genes.
- Proteome: The entire set of proteins expressed by a genome, cell, tissue, or organism.
- Plankton: The small and microscopic organisms drifting or floating in the sea or freshwater.
- Pleiotropy: The production by a single gene of two or more unrelated effects.
- Probiotic: Microorganisms that are believed to provide health benefits when consumed.
- Prion: A type of protein that can trigger normal proteins in the brain to fold abnormally, leading to diseases.
- Phospholipid: A type of lipid molecule that is the main component of the cell membrane.
- Phylogeny: The evolutionary history and relationship of an individual or group of species.
- Pedigree: A diagram that shows the occurrence and appearance of phenotypes of a particular gene or organism and its ancestors from one generation to the next.
- Pituitary gland: The major endocrine gland responsible for regulating vital bodily functions and general well-being.
- Plasmolysis: The process in which cells lose water in a hypertonic solution.
- Polymer: A large molecule composed of many repeated subunits.
- Polar body: A small haploid cell that is a byproduct of oogenesis and degrades.
- Parthenogenesis: A form of asexual reproduction where an egg develops into an individual without fertilization.
- Punctuated equilibrium: The hypothesis that evolutionary development is marked by isolated episodes of rapid speciation between long periods of little or no change.
- Pyruvate: The end product of glycolysis, which is converted into acetyl coA that enters the Krebs cycle when there is oxygen available.
- Peristalsis: The series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.
- Phagocyte: A type of cell within the body capable of engulfing and absorbing bacteria and other small cells and particles.
- Papilla: A small rounded protuberance on a part or organ of the body.
- Pedicel: The stalk bearing a single flower of an inflorescence.
- Pedicellate: Having a pedicel.
- Pellucid: Translucently clear.
- Pentose: A type of sugar with five carbon atoms.
- Pericarp: The part of a fruit that surrounds the seed(s).
- Petiole: The stalk that joins a leaf to a stem.
- Phloem: The vascular tissue in plants that conducts sugars and other metabolic products downward from the leaves.
- Photoperiodism: The physiological reaction of organisms to the length of day or night.
- Phototropism: The orientation of a plant or other organism in response to light.
- Pilus (Pili): Hair-like appendage found on the surface of many bacteria that helps in attachment.
- Pleura: Each of a pair of serous membranes lining the thorax and enveloping the lungs.
- Polar covalent bond: A type of covalent bond where electrons are unequally shared between two atoms.
- Polysaccharide: A carbohydrate whose molecules consist of many sugar molecules bonded together.
Biology Words That Start With Q
- Quiescence: A state of inactivity or dormancy in cells.
- Quantitative trait: A trait that can be measured numerically and is influenced by multiple genes.
- Quantitative trait locus (QTL): A location on a chromosome associated with the degree of a quantitative trait.
- Quaternary structure: The arrangement of multiple folded protein or coiling protein molecules in a multi-subunit complex.
- Quorum sensing: A system of stimulus and response in bacteria that is correlated to population density.
- Quinone: A type of aromatic compound that plays a role in electron or proton transfer in some biological processes.
- Quadruplet: In genetics, a set of four identical offspring from one zygote.
- Quiescent center: A region in the root meristem of plants where cell division occurs at a slower rate.
- Quinol: A hydroquinone compound involved in certain oxidation-reduction reactions in biological systems.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid found in many plants, known for its antioxidant properties.
- Quantum biology: The study of quantum phenomena in biological systems.
- Quadruplex DNA: DNA structures with four-stranded formations, often involving guanine-rich sequences.
- Quinacrine: A synthetic compound used as an antimalarial and also in cytogenetics to stain chromosomes.
- Quinate: A cyclitol, a cyclic polyol, and a cyclohexanecarboxylic acid that is involved in the biosynthesis of aromatic compounds in plants.
- Quinolinate: An intermediate in the tryptophan-niacin pathway, which can act as a neurotoxin.
- Quicksilver: Another name for the element mercury.
- Quill: The hollow shaft of a feather.
- Quinolone: A type of antibacterial drug.
- Quintuplet: In genetics, a set of five identical offspring from one zygote.
- Quokka: A small wallaby native to a small region of southwestern Australia.
- Quadriceps: A large muscle group that includes the four prevailing muscles on the front of the thigh.
- Quadrant: In anatomy, any of the four areas into which a plane, especially the abdominal plane, is divided by horizontal and vertical lines.
- Quinhydrone: A crystalline compound used as a hydrogen-ion indicator.
- Quercitrin: A glycoside formed from quercetin and rhamnose found in oak bark and other plants.
- Quinovic acid: A triterpenoid compound found in certain plants.
- Quinovose: A sugar derivative found in certain glycosides.
- Quercus: The genus of trees and shrubs that includes the oaks.
- Quiescent cell: A cell that is in a state of dormancy and not actively dividing.
- Quantification: The act of measuring or expressing the quantity of a particular substance or entity.
- Quadrifoliate: Having four leaves or leaflets.
- Quartan: Relating to the recurrence of an event every fourth day, especially a malarial fever.
- Quincke’s pulse: A clinical sign observed in aortic insufficiency where there’s an exaggerated elevation of the systolic blood pressure.
- Quinizarin: A type of hydroxyanthraquinone used as a red dye.
- Quinone methide: A type of organic compound derived from phenols.
- Quintessence: In historical contexts, the fifth and highest essence after the four classical elements; sometimes equated to the life force.
- Quercitin: A type of flavonoid antioxidant found in many plants and foods.
- Quinol oxidase: An enzyme involved in the electron transport chain.
- Quinoprotein: Proteins that have a quinone group.
- Quinuclidine: A bicyclic amine that is used in the preparation of various pharmaceuticals.
- Quisqualate: A type of agonist for certain glutamate receptors.
- Quixotry: A reference to behavior that is noble but unrealistic or impractical.
- Quorum quenching: The disruption or inhibition of quorum sensing in bacteria.
- Quinolinate synthase: An enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of quinolinate.
- Quinate dehydrogenase: An enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of quinate to dehydroquinate.
- Quinolinate phosphoribosyltransferase: An enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of nicotinate nucleotide.
- Quinate permease: A protein involved in the transport of quinate across cell membranes.
- Quinolone resistance: The development of bacterial resistance to quinolone antibiotics.
- Quinone reductase: An enzyme that catalyzes the reduction of quinones to hydroquinones.
- Quinone oxidoreductase: An enzyme involved in the oxidation-reduction of quinones.
- Quinolinate carboxylase: An enzyme involved in the conversion of quinolinate to nicotinate.
Biology Words That Start With R
- Ribosome: A cellular structure that synthesizes proteins by translating mRNA.
- RNA (Ribonucleic acid): A molecule similar to DNA that plays a role in protein synthesis and other cell activities.
- Reproduction: The process by which organisms produce offspring.
- Respiration: The process by which cells produce energy by converting oxygen and glucose into carbon dioxide and water.
- Receptor: A protein on a cell’s surface or within a cell that binds with specific molecules, leading to a specific effect inside the cell.
- Recessive: Refers to a gene or allele that is masked by the presence of another in a heterozygous pairing.
- Recombinant DNA: DNA that has been artificially created by combining genes from two different sources.
- Regeneration: The process by which organisms replace lost or damaged body parts.
- Renal: Pertaining to the kidneys.
- Replication: The process by which DNA makes a copy of itself during cell division.
- Ribonucleotide: The monomer units that make up RNA.
- Retrovirus: A type of RNA virus that inserts a copy of its genome into the DNA of a host cell that it invades, thus changing the genome of that cell.
- Rhizome: A continuously growing horizontal underground stem that puts out lateral shoots and adventitious roots at intervals.
- Riboflavin: Also known as vitamin B2, it’s important for body growth and red blood cell production.
- Ruminant: A mammal that chews cud regurgitated from its rumen (e.g., cows and sheep).
- Radial symmetry: Symmetry around a central axis, as in starfish.
- Radiation: The emission of energy as electromagnetic waves.
- Recombinant: An organism or DNA molecule formed by recombining genes from two different sources.
- Redox: A type of chemical reaction that involves a transfer of electrons between two species.
- Reflex: An involuntary and nearly instantaneous movement in response to a stimulus.
- Regulation: The adaptation of form or behavior of an organism to changed conditions.
- Relaxin: A hormone produced by the ovary and the placenta with important effects in the female reproductive system and during pregnancy.
- Restriction enzyme: A protein produced by bacteria that cleaves DNA at specific sites.
- Retina: The light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye.
- Retrotransposon: A mobile element in the genome that can replicate itself and move from one location to another in the genome.
- Rh factor: An antigen present on the surface of red blood cells in many humans.
- Ribulose: A pentose sugar involved in photosynthesis in plants.
- Rod cells: Photoreceptor cells in the retina of the eye that can function in less intense light than cone cells.
- Root hair: A tiny hair-like extension from the root that absorbs water and minerals from the soil.
- R-strategist: Species characterized by rapid growth, high fertility, short lifespan, and exponential population growth.
- Rumen: The first stomach of a ruminant, which receives food or cud from the esophagus.
- Rut: The mating season of certain mammals, such as deer.
- RNA polymerase: An enzyme that produces RNA by following a strand of DNA.
- RNA splicing: The process by which introns are removed from heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA) and the remaining exons connected to form mature messenger RNA.
- Rickets: A disease of children caused by vitamin D deficiency.
- Rigor mortis: The stiffening of the body after death.
- RNA interference (RNAi): A biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression.
- Rumen fermentation: The microbial fermentation processes that occur in the rumen of ruminant animals.
- Rheumatoid factor: An antibody present in the blood of many patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Ribozyme: An RNA molecule capable of acting as an enzyme.
- Reticulum: A fine network or net-like structure.
- Rheology: The study of the flow of matter.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: A chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the joints.
- Ribosomal RNA (rRNA): RNA that makes up the major part of ribosomes.
- Retrograde: Moving backward or against the usual direction of flow.
- Reversion: The return to a former or less developed state; a return to an earlier genetic characteristic.
- Rhizoid: A root-like structure in nonvascular plants, such as mosses and liverworts.
- Ribonuclease: An enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of RNA into smaller components.
- Rickettsia: A genus of bacteria that are obligate intracellular parasites.
- Rodent: A mammal of the order Rodentia, characterized by continuously growing incisors used for gnawing.
Biology Words That Start With S
- Stomata: Tiny openings on the surface of leaves that allow for gas exchange.
- Species: A group of living organisms that can interbreed to produce fertile offspring.
- Symbiosis: A relationship between two different organisms where both benefit.
- Stem: The main structural part of a plant that supports leaves and flowers.
- Synapse: The junction between two nerve cells where impulses pass.
- Sporulation: The process of spore formation.
- Skeletal System: The framework of bones that supports and protects the body.
- Substrate: The substance on which an enzyme acts.
- Sensory Neurons: Neurons that transmit sensory information.
- Saprophyte: An organism that feeds on dead organic matter.
- Sclerenchyma: A type of plant tissue that provides support and is made of dead cells.
- Sarcomere: The basic unit of muscle tissue.
- Sexual Reproduction: Reproduction involving the fusion of gametes.
- Somatic Cells: Any cell of the body except sperm and egg cells.
- Stroma: The supportive tissue in organs, or the fluid-filled space in chloroplasts.
- Sessile: Organisms that are fixed in one place and do not move.
- Sporophyte: The diploid phase in plants that produces spores.
- Sulcus: A groove or furrow, especially in the brain.
- Suture: A stitch or row of stitches holding together the edges of a wound.
- Sphincter: A ring of muscle that contracts to close an opening.
- Steroid: A type of organic compound that includes hormones and certain vitamins.
- Saponification: The process of making soap from fats and lye.
- Sedimentation: The process of settling or being deposited as a sediment.
- Serum: The clear, yellowish fluid that remains from blood plasma after clotting.
- Sporozoite: A stage in the life cycle of certain parasites, especially the malaria parasite.
- Sclera: The white outer layer of the eyeball.
- Scurvy: A disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C.
- Scavenger: An organism that feeds on dead or decaying matter.
- Sickle Cell Anemia: A genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to have a crescent shape.
- Sensory Organs: Organs that receive stimuli, such as eyes, ears, and skin.
- Stenosis: The narrowing of a passage in the body.
- Subcutaneous: Beneath the skin.
- Symbiont: An organism in a symbiotic relationship.
- Synthetic Biology: A field of biology that involves designing and constructing new biological parts.
- Sympathetic Nervous System: Part of the nervous system that prepares the body for action.
- Synthetic Evolution: The use of artificial means to direct the evolution of organisms.
- Systole: The phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle contracts.
- Saccule: A small sac-like structure in the inner ear.
- Spermatogenesis: The production of sperm cells.
- Sporangium: A structure in fungi and plants where spores are produced.
- Stenotopic: Organisms that can tolerate only a narrow range of environmental conditions.
- Subspecies: A taxonomic category below species.
- Suture (in skull): The immovable joint between bones in the skull.
- Syngamy: The fusion of two gametes in fertilization.
- Synthetic Genomics: The field of science focused on writing genomes to create synthetic life.
- Syrinx: The vocal organ of birds.
- Systolic Pressure: The highest arterial blood pressure during contraction of the left ventricle of the heart.
- Saprozoic: Organisms that obtain nutrients from the dissolved organic matter.
- Scleroprotein: Insoluble proteins that form structural parts of the body, like keratin and collagen.
- Stimulus: A thing or event that evokes a specific functional reaction in an organ or tissue.
Biology Words That Start With T
- Tissue: A group of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function.
- Taxonomy: The science of classifying and naming organisms.
- Trachea: The windpipe; a tube leading from the throat to the lungs.
- Transcription: The process of copying DNA into RNA.
- Translation: The process by which proteins are synthesized from RNA.
- Telophase: The final phase of cell division where the cell splits into two.
- Trophic Level: The position an organism occupies in a food chain.
- Tendon: A fibrous tissue that connects muscle to bone.
- Thymus: An organ where T cells mature; part of the immune system.
- Thermoregulation: The process by which animals maintain an internal temperature.
- Transpiration: The loss of water from plants, mainly through the stomata.
- Tropism: A growth response of a plant toward or away from a stimulus.
- Tuberculosis: A bacterial disease that affects the lungs.
- Turgor Pressure: The pressure of water pushing the plasma membrane against the cell wall of a plant cell.
- Tetraploid: An organism or cell with four sets of chromosomes.
- Trophic Cascade: A process in an ecosystem where the top predators affect the abundance of their prey and other lower trophic levels.
- Tympanum: The eardrum.
- Transgenic: An organism that has had genes from another organism inserted into its DNA.
- Tonsils: Lymphoid tissue located at the back of the throat.
- Tracheids: Water-conducting cells in plants.
- Tropopause: The boundary in the Earth’s atmosphere between the troposphere and the stratosphere.
- Thylakoid: A membrane-bound compartment inside chloroplasts and cyanobacteria; site of the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.
- Telomere: The protective end of a chromosome.
- Taxis: A movement of an organism in response to a stimulus.
- Tectonic: Relating to the movement and deformation of the Earth’s crust.
- Thallus: The body of a plant-like organism that is not divided into leaves, roots, or stems.
- Therapsid: A group of extinct mammals and reptiles.
- Thorax: The part of the body between the neck and the abdomen.
- Thrombocyte: Another term for platelets, which are involved in clotting blood.
- Thylacine: An extinct carnivorous marsupial also known as the Tasmanian tiger.
- Tonicity: The ability of a solution to cause a cell to gain or lose water.
- Translocation: The movement of substances within a plant.
- Triglyceride: A type of fat found in the blood.
- Tubulin: A protein that forms microtubules, which are part of the cell’s cytoskeleton.
- Tumor: An abnormal growth of cells.
- Tundra: A cold, treeless biome where the subsoil is permanently frozen.
- Tyrosine: An amino acid used in the synthesis of proteins.
- Trophic Interaction: The interaction between organisms at different trophic levels in a food chain.
- Tubercle: A small, rounded projection or lump, especially on the skin or on the surface of an organ.
- Turbellaria: A class of free-living flatworms.
- Tympanic Membrane: Another term for the eardrum.
- Typhoid: A bacterial disease spread through contaminated food and water.
- Tryptophan: An essential amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin.
- Tubule: A small tube or tubular structure.
- Tunicate: A marine invertebrate animal, also known as a sea squirt.
- Turbidity: The cloudiness or haziness in a fluid caused by individual particles.
- Turgid: Swollen or distended, especially due to high fluid content.
- Turnover: The rate at which a particular substance is replaced or used up.
- Tyrosinase: An enzyme that catalyzes the production of melanin.
- Tyrannosaurus: A large carnivorous dinosaur that lived during the late Cretaceous period.
Biology Words That Start With U
- Umbilical Cord: The cord connecting a fetus to the placenta, providing oxygen and nutrient-rich blood.
- Uterus: The female reproductive organ where a fertilized egg implants and grows.
- Urea: A waste product formed in the liver and excreted by the kidneys.
- Uric Acid: A waste product resulting from the metabolism of purines, excreted in urine.
- Ulna: One of the two bones in the forearm (the other is the radius).
- Uvea: The middle layer of the eye, consisting of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid.
- Umbel: A flat-topped or rounded flower cluster.
- Ungulate: A hoofed mammal, such as horses, cows, and deer.
- Urology: The branch of medicine dealing with the urinary and male reproductive systems.
- Uropod: A flattened posterior appendage in some crustaceans.
- Urochordate: Marine invertebrates that are closely related to vertebrates; also known as tunicates or sea squirts.
- Uptake: The absorption or intake of substances by cells or tissues.
- Uracil: A nitrogenous base found in RNA but not in DNA.
- Ureter: The duct that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder.
- Urethra: The duct through which urine exits the body.
- Uricotelic: Organisms that excrete nitrogenous waste primarily as uric acid.
- Urogenital: Pertaining to the urinary and genital organs.
- Umbra: The fully shaded inner region of a shadow cast by an opaque object.
- Ultrastructure: The detailed structure of a biological specimen, such as a cell, tissue, or organ.
- Ulcer: A sore that develops on the lining of the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine.
- Ultracentrifugation: A process used to separate particles from a solution using high-speed centrifugation.
- Umbonate: Having a raised area resembling the boss of a shield.
- Unicellular: Consisting of a single cell.
- Unilateral: Affecting one side of something.
- Uptake Protein: Proteins involved in the uptake of substances into cells.
- Uterine Tube: Also known as the fallopian tube, it connects the ovaries to the uterus.
- Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea in the eye.
- Ubiquitin: A small protein that tags old or damaged proteins for destruction.
- Umbelliferone: A natural product found in many plants and a precursor for the synthesis of other bioactive compounds.
- Umbellularia: A genus of trees known for producing bay leaves.
- Understory: The vegetation layer beneath the main canopy of a forest.
- Undulate: To move in a wavy pattern or with a rising and falling motion.
- Unipotent: Cells that have the capacity to differentiate into only one cell type.
- Uptake Transporter: Proteins that facilitate the transport of substances across a cell membrane.
- Urodele: A type of amphibian that includes newts and salamanders.
- Uropathy: Any disease or abnormality of the urinary system.
- Urostomy: A surgical procedure to create an opening in the urinary system to divert urine.
- Ursidae: The bear family, which includes polar bears, grizzlies, and pandas.
- Urticaria: A skin rash caused by an allergic reaction, also known as hives.
- Utricle: A small sac in the inner ear that detects changes in head position.
- Uxorial: Relating to a wife or the role of a wife.
- Unguiculate: Having nails or claw-like structures.
- Unguent: A soft greasy or viscous substance used as an ointment or for lubrication.
- Uranalysis: The analysis of urine for diagnostic purposes.
- Urease: An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea into carbon dioxide and ammonia.
- Uremia: A high level of urea and other nitrogenous waste compounds in the blood.
- Uridine: A nucleoside compound found in RNA.
- Urochrome: The pigment responsible for the yellow color of urine.
- Uropeltid: A family of non-venomous shield tail snakes found in peninsular India and Sri Lanka.
- Uxorial Dominance: A situation in which the female has a dominant role in a pair bond.
Biology Words That Start With V
- Vascular: Relating to the vessels or tubes that transport blood or sap in animals and plants.
- Virus: A microscopic infectious agent that can replicate only inside the cells of living organisms.
- Vesicle: A small fluid-filled sac or blister within the body.
- Vertebrae: The individual bones that stack to form the vertebral column or spine.
- Vitamins: Organic compounds that are essential for normal growth and nutrition.
- Vaccination: The administration of a vaccine to stimulate an immune response against a specific disease.
- Vasodilation: The widening of blood vessels.
- Vasoconstriction: The narrowing of blood vessels.
- Ventricles: The two lower chambers of the heart that pump blood out to the body.
- Veins: Blood vessels that carry blood towards the heart.
- Vestigial: Referring to an organ or part which is reduced in size and function compared to its ancestral form.
- Viviparous: Giving birth to live offspring (as opposed to laying eggs).
- Voracious: Having a very eager approach to a particular activity, often related to feeding.
- Vulva: The external part of the female genitalia.
- Vernalization: The induction of a plant’s flowering process by exposure to the prolonged cold of winter.
- Vector: An organism that transmits a disease or parasite from one animal or plant to another.
- Vitreous Humor: The clear gel that fills the space between the lens and the retina in the eyeball.
- Vasectomy: A surgical procedure for male sterilization.
- Viroid: A plant pathogen composed of a short stretch of circular RNA without a protein coat.
- Vagus Nerve: The tenth cranial nerve that interfaces with parasympathetic control of the heart and digestive tract.
- Valve: A body structure that temporarily closes a passage or orifice.
- Vancomycin: An antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.
- Variation: Differences in physical and genetic characteristics between individuals.
- Vascular Bundle: A strand of conducting vessels in the stem or leaves of a plant.
- Vasopressin: A hormone that raises blood pressure and makes the kidneys conserve water.
- Ventral: Pertaining to the front or belly side of an organism.
- Vertebrate: An animal with a backbone or spinal column.
- Virology: The study of viruses and viral diseases.
- Visceral: Pertaining to the internal organs.
- Vitaminosis: A condition resulting from an excessive intake of one or more vitamins.
- Vivisection: The practice of performing operations on live animals for scientific research.
- Volatile: Easily evaporated at normal temperatures; often used in the context of organic compounds.
- Volvox: A genus of chlorophyte green algae in the family Volvocaceae.
- Vomeronasal Organ: An auxiliary olfactory sense organ found in many animals.
- Vortex: A mass of whirling fluid or air, especially a whirlpool or whirlwind.
- Vulvar: Relating to the vulva.
- Vulpine: Relating to or resembling a fox.
- Vasculogenesis: The formation of blood vessels from endothelial cell precursors.
- Vasodilator: A drug or chemical that relaxes the smooth muscle in blood vessels, increasing blood flow.
- Vellus: Fine, soft hair that covers most of the human body.
- Venom: A toxic substance produced by some animals, such as snakes and spiders, used to immobilize or kill prey.
- Ventricular Fibrillation: A condition in which there is uncoordinated contraction of the heart muscle.
- Vestibule: A chamber or channel that serves as an entrance to another chamber or channel.
- Vexillology: The scientific study of the history, symbolism, and usage of flags.
- Viability: The ability to survive or live successfully.
- Vicariance: The geographical separation of a population due to barriers such as mountains or water.
- Villus: A small, finger-like projection that extends into the lumen of the small intestine to aid in absorption.
- Virulence: The degree of pathogenicity of a microorganism.
- Viscosity: A measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow.
- Vitamin K: A vitamin that plays a key role in helping the blood clot.
Biology Words That Start With W
- White Blood Cells (WBCs): Cells of the immune system that help the body fight infections and diseases.
- Wild Type: The typical form of an organism or gene that occurs naturally in the wild.
- Whale: A large marine mammal that belongs to the cetacean group.
- Wetland: An area of land where water covers the soil, either permanently or seasonally.
- Wart: A small, rough growth on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Wing: A limb adapted for flying, found in birds, bats, and insects.
- Water Cycle: The continuous process by which water moves through the environment, including evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.
- Wolbachia: A genus of bacteria that infects arthropods and can affect the reproductive abilities of their hosts.
- Wound: An injury to the body, typically involving a break in the skin.
- Weed: A plant considered undesirable or troublesome, especially in a cultivated setting.
- Wood: The hard, fibrous substance composing the stem and branches of a tree or shrub.
- Wasp: An insect known for its slender body and narrow waist, some species of which can deliver painful stings.
- Water Potential: The potential energy of water in a system compared to pure water.
- White Matter: The paler tissue of the brain and spinal cord, consisting mainly of nerve fibers with their myelin sheaths.
- Wavelength: The distance between successive crests of a wave, especially in sound or electromagnetic waves.
- Whorl: A spiral or twisted formation or pattern.
- Wildlife: Animals that are not tamed or domesticated and live in their natural environment.
- Waxy Cuticle: A protective, waxy layer covering the epidermis of plants.
- Webbed: Having skin between the toes, as seen in ducks and some amphibians.
- White Muscle Fiber: Muscle fiber that contracts quickly and is used for short bursts of activity.
- Wobble Base Pairing: The flexibility in the third position of a codon to pair with more than one kind of base.
- Worm: An elongated, soft-bodied invertebrate animal.
- Wolffian Duct: An embryonic duct that gives rise to male reproductive structures.
- Wrinkle: A small line or fold in the skin, especially as a result of aging.
- Water Table: The level below which the ground is saturated with water.
- Waterborne: Carried or transmitted by water.
- Wheat: A cereal plant that is the most important kind grown in temperate countries.
- Wildflower: A flower that grows in natural places without being planted by humans.
- Wet Mount: A method of making a microscope slide by placing a drop of liquid on a slide.
- White Dwarf: A small, dense star that has exhausted all its central nuclear fuel.
- Willow: A type of tree or shrub that typically grows near water and has slender branches.
- Wartime: A period during which a war is taking place.
- Wing Span: The distance between the tips of the wings of a bird or other flying animal.
- Water Stress: The negative effects experienced by a plant due to insufficient water.
- Whisker: A long, stiff hair growing from the face or snout of many mammals.
- Whey: The watery part of milk that remains after the formation of curds.
- Wombat: A burrowing plant-eating Australian marsupial with a backward-facing pouch.
- Wool: The fine, soft, curly hair that forms the fleece of sheep and some other animals.
- Wound Healing: The process by which the body repairs any break or defect in the skin.
- Wet Tropics: A tropical region that receives a significant amount of rainfall.
- Whale Shark: The largest species of fish, known for its filter-feeding habits.
- Waterfowl: Birds that live near water, such as ducks, geese, and swans.
- Wingbeat: The motion or sound of wings flapping.
- Wheat Germ: The part of wheat that germinates to grow into a new plant.
- Witch Hazel: A shrub or small tree with fragrant yellow flowers, used for therapeutic purposes.
- Winglet: A small wing or wing-shaped structure attached to the tip of a larger wing.
- Wart Hog: A wild pig with large upward-curving tusks, native to Africa.
- Water Flea: A small freshwater crustacean that swims in a jerky manner.
- Wing Case: The protective cover over the wings of some insects.
- Wisteria: A climbing shrub with hanging clusters of pale bluish-lilac flowers.
Biology Words That Start With X
- Xylem: The vascular tissue in plants that conducts water and dissolved nutrients upward from the root.
- Xenobiology: The study of extraterrestrial life forms or the biology of species from other planets.
- Xenograft: A graft obtained from a member of one species and transplanted to a member of another species.
- Xenogenesis: The supposed generation of offspring entirely different from either of the parents.
- Xenophyte: A plant species that is not native and has been introduced from a different region.
- Xenotransplantation: The transplantation of living cells, tissues, or organs from one species to another.
- Xerophyte: A plant adapted for life in conditions with little water, such as cacti.
- Xerosis: Abnormal dryness, especially of the skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.
- Xanthophyll: A yellow or brown pigment found in plants and involved in photosynthesis.
- Xenonucleic Acid (XNA): Synthetic alternatives to the natural nucleic acids DNA and RNA.
- Xenopus: A genus of aquatic frogs native to sub-Saharan Africa, commonly used in research.
- Xeroderma: A condition characterized by excessively dry skin.
- Xeriscaping: Landscaping with drought-resistant plants to conserve water.
- Xiphoid: The cartilage at the bottom of the sternum (breastbone).
- Xenophobe: An organism that can only survive in the presence of oxygen.
- Xenophile: An organism that can only survive in the absence of oxygen.
- Xanthoma: A skin condition marked by the development of yellowish growths due to lipid deposits.
- Xanthine: A crystalline compound found in blood and urine and is a precursor of uric acid.
- Xerarch: Succession of ecological communities originating in a dry habitat.
- Xerophilous: Able to withstand dry conditions; drought-resistant.
- Xerocole: An animal adapted to live in desert conditions.
- Xeroderma Pigmentosum: A rare inherited skin disorder characterized by sensitivity to sunlight which can cause skin cancer.
- Xenophyophore: A type of giant amoeba that lives on the deep-sea floor.
- Xanthopsia: A condition in which objects appear yellowish.
- Xenodiagnosis: A diagnostic method where a disease or parasite is detected by exposing a suspected host to a vector and then examining the vector.
- Xerography: A dry photocopying process.
- Xiphisternum: The posterior segment of the sternum.
- Xenophloea: A genus of trees in the family Sapotaceae.
- Xenophyte: A plant species that is not native to a particular region.
- Xeromorph: An organism or structure that appears to be adapted to dry conditions.
- Xerophilic: Organisms, especially fungi, that grow best at low water activity.
- Xeroradiography: A type of X-ray imaging where a photoelectrically charged plate is used.
- Xylem Sap: The solution of water and dissolved minerals that is transported through the xylem.
- Xylocarp: A hard, woody fruit.
- Xylography: The art of engraving on wood.
- Xyloid: Resembling wood; woody.
- Xylophagous: Feeding on or boring into wood.
- Xylophilous: Attracted to or living in wood.
- Xylose: A sugar extracted from wood.
- Xylophage: An organism that feeds on wood.
- Xyloglucan: A hemicellulose that occurs in plant cell walls.
- Xylophobia: An irrational fear of forests or wooden objects.
- Xyloplast: A plastid in which starch is replaced by xylogen.
- Xylopyranose: The pyranose form of xylose, a pentose sugar.
- Xylograph: An engraving on wood, especially one used for printing.
- Xylographer: One who practices xylography, the art of engraving on wood.
- Xyloidin: A substance obtained from certain plants, resembling cellulose.
- Xylophonic: Pertaining to the sound of wood being struck.
- Xyloquinone: A type of chemical compound derived from xylose.
- Xylose Isomerase: An enzyme that converts xylose to xylulose.
Biology Words That Start With Y
- Yeast: Single-celled fungi used in fermenting and baking.
- Yolk: The nutrient-rich portion of an egg, separate from the egg white.
- Y-chromosome: One of the two sex chromosomes; found only in males.
- Y-linked: Genes located on the Y chromosome.
- Yellow Fever: A viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, causing fever and jaundice.
- Yield: The amount of product obtained in any biochemical reaction.
- Yawn: An involuntary reflex where the mouth is opened wide, and the lungs take in a lot of air.
- Yucca: A genus of plants with sword-like leaves and large clusters of white or purplish flowers.
- Yersinia: A genus of bacteria, some species of which can cause disease in humans.
- Yolk Sac: A membranous sac attached to an embryo, providing early nourishment in the form of yolk.
- Y-autosome translocation: A condition where a portion of the Y chromosome is transferred to an autosome.
- Yttrium: A chemical element used in certain medical treatments and procedures.
- Yabby: A freshwater Australian crayfish.
- Y-linked inheritance: The pattern of inheritance of genes located on the Y chromosome.
- Yoga: A physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India; can have health benefits.
- Yew: A type of tree or shrub, some species of which produce toxic compounds.
- Yolk stalk: A tube-like structure that connects the yolk sac to the embryo’s gut.
- Yeast artificial chromosome (YAC): A vector used to clone DNA fragments up to 1 million base pairs.
- Yardlong bean: A tropical plant grown for its long pods, eaten as a vegetable.
- Yellow bone marrow: Bone marrow that stores fat.
- Yersiniosis: An infection caused by Yersinia bacteria.
- Y-linked gene: A gene located on the Y chromosome.
- Yolk plug: Cells of the yolk sac that temporarily close the blastopore during embryonic development.
- Y-organ: An organ in crustaceans responsible for producing molting hormones.
- Yttrium-90: A radioactive isotope used in cancer treatments.
- Yeast extract: A food flavoring made from the same yeast used to make bread and beer.
- Yeast infection: An infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast, especially Candida albicans.
- Yellow rust: A disease in wheat caused by a fungus.
- Yolk granules: Nutrient-rich particles found in the yolk of an egg.
- Yeast two-hybrid system: A molecular biology method used to discover protein-protein interactions.
- Yeast mold: A type of fungus that has characteristics of both yeasts and molds.
- Yawning contagion: The phenomenon where seeing or hearing someone yawn induces yawning in an observer.
- Yeast cell wall: The protective outer layer of yeast cells.
- Yolked: Having a yolk.
- Yeast nucleic acid: RNA obtained from yeast cells.
- Y-chromosomal Adam: The most recent common ancestor from whom all currently living men are descended patrilineally.
- Yolk platelet: Granules of stored food found in the cytoplasm of some animal cells.
- Yellow-green algae: Photosynthetic protists that belong to the class Xanthophyceae.
- Yeast-like: Resembling yeast in appearance or function.
- Yolk membrane: The membrane surrounding the yolk of an egg.
- Yeast syndrome: A condition believed by some to result from an overgrowth of Candida albicans in the intestines.
- Yeast cake: A type of yeast sold as a food product.
- Yolk nucleus: The portion of the egg cell containing the nucleus during certain stages of oogenesis.
- Yeast powder: Dried yeast used as a food supplement or flavoring.
- Y-chromosomal bottleneck: A sharp reduction in the size of the Y chromosome due to environmental events.
- Yeast propagation: The process of growing and multiplying yeast cells.
- Yolk sac tumor: A rare, malignant tumor of the ovary or testis.
- Yeast form: The unicellular form of fungi that may switch between multicellular (mycelial) and unicellular forms.
- Yolk gland: A gland in some invertebrates that produces yolk.
- Yeast metabolites: Compounds produced by yeast during metabolism.
Biology Words That Start With Z
- Zygote: The cell formed by the union of two gametes, especially a fertilized ovum before cleavage.
- Zoology: The scientific study of animals and animal behavior.
- Zoonosis: A disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
- Zooplankton: Tiny aquatic animals that drift in water bodies and are a primary food source for many marine animals.
- Zoospore: A spore of certain algae, fungi, and protozoans, capable of movement.
- Zebrafish: A small tropical freshwater fish often used in research due to its transparent embryos.
- Zymogen: An inactive substance that is converted into an enzyme when activated by another enzyme.
- Zooid: An individual animal in a colonial organism.
- Zygospore: A spore formed by the fusion of two similar gametes, especially in fungi.
- Zygomatic: Relating to the cheekbone (also called the zygomatic bone).
- Zymase: A complex of enzymes in yeast that catalyze the fermentation of sugars.
- Zoetrope: A device that produces the illusion of motion from a rapid succession of static pictures.
- Zonation: The distribution of plants or animals into specific zones according to changes in environmental conditions.
- Zooparasite: A parasitic animal.
- Zoster: The medical term for shingles, a viral disease characterized by a painful skin rash.
- Zooculture: The rearing and breeding of animals.
- Zygomorphic: Bilaterally symmetrical in a way where the two halves can only be divided into equal parts with one plane of division.
- Zygomycetes: A class of fungi characterized by the formation of a sturdy structure called a zygosporangium during sexual reproduction.
- Zoopathy: An abnormality or pathology found in animals.
- Zoophyte: An invertebrate that has some characteristics of plants, such as certain sea anemones or corals.
- Zymurgy: The branch of chemistry related to fermentation processes in brewing.
- Zygotene: A stage of meiotic prophase I during which synapsis of homologous chromosomes occurs.
- Zoophyte: An organism that appears to be a hybrid of plant and animal, like certain sea anemones.
- Zoosporangium: A spore capsule in which zoospores are produced.
- Zygodactyl: Having two toes pointing forward and two backward, as in many birds.
- Zymotic: Relating to or caused by fermentation; also refers to infectious diseases.
- Zoonotic: Pertaining to zoonosis, diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
- Zygnema: A genus of green algae known for its star-shaped chloroplasts.
- Zooidogamy: A type of sexual reproduction in which gametes are motile and similar in size.
- Zylophage: An organism that feeds on wood.
- Zoocytium: The cell body of certain algae from which zoospores are produced.
- Zygomata: The pair of bones that form the arches of the cheek, also known as cheekbones.
- Zoanthropy: A mental disorder in which one believes oneself to be an animal.
- Zygomycota: A phylum of fungi that includes bread molds and mycorrhizal fungi.
- Zoopery: The study or collection of animal specimens.
- Zygotaxis: The arrangement of zygotes or young cells after cell division.
- Zoophilous: Attracted to or associated with animals.
- Zygnematales: An order of green algae, primarily freshwater, known for conjugation as a form of sexual reproduction.
- Zoografting: The transplantation of tissues or organs from an animal to a human.
- Zythem: An old term for a fermented beverage, especially beer.
- Zoogloea: A type of bacterial colony that forms a gelatinous mat.
- Zygnema: A genus of filamentous green algae.
- Zoocentric: Focusing on animals in particular studies or perspectives.
- Zygodactyly: The arrangement of digits in birds with two toes facing forward and two backward.
- Zoogony: The production of offspring by an animal.
- Zylophagous: Wood-eating or wood-boring.
- Zoophagan: An animal that feeds on other animals.
- Zythemetry: The science or act of fermentation.
- Zoosystematics: The classification and naming of animals.
- Zygomorphous: Having bilateral symmetry, especially in the context of flowers.