cytoplasm etymology

Etymology and Meaning

The word "cytoplasm" is derived from two Greek words:

  • cyto-: meaning "cell"
  • plasma: meaning "liquid"

Therefore, cytoplasm literally means "cell liquid."

Origin

The term "cytoplasm" was first introduced in 1861 by German anatomist Hugo von Mohl. He used the term to describe the non-nuclear contents of plant cells. Later, the term was adopted for animal cells as well.

Definition

Cytoplasm is the gel-like substance that fills the space within a cell between the nucleus and the cell membrane. It consists of a complex mixture of water, ions, dissolved molecules (sugars, amino acids, etc.), and suspended organelles (such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus).

Composition

  • Water (70-85%)
  • Ions (sodium, potassium, chloride, etc.)
  • Dissolved molecules (amino acids, sugars, ATP, etc.)
  • Suspended organelles (mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, etc.)

Functions

  • Provides a medium for chemical reactions
  • Transports materials within the cell
  • Facilitates cell division
  • Maintains cellular stability and shape
  • Regulates cell metabolism

cytoplasm relate terms

  • cyto

    Etymology Cyto is derived from the Greek word κύτος kytos meaning hollow vessel

  • plasma

    Etymology The word plasma derives from the Greek word plasma which means moldable s

  • cell

    Etymology The word cell derives from the Latin word cella meaning small room or c

  • protoplasm

    Etymology Proto Greek First original plasm Greek Formed molded Meaning P

  • delirium

    Etymology The word delirium comes from the Latin word delirare which means to be ou

  • amen

    Etymology Amen originated from the Hebrew word ʾāmēn אָמֵן which is a transl

  • refugee

    Etymology of Refugee The word refugee originates from the French word réfugié m

  • week

    Etymology Old English wice Proto Germanic wikon Proto Indo European wig Meaning

  • laconic

    Etymology From Ancient Greek λακωνικός lākōnikós meaning Laconic refe

  • cast

    Etymology The word cast has several distinct etymologies As a verb From Middle En

  • recreation

    Etymology The word recreation derives from the Latin recreatio meaning restoration

  • Munchkin

    Etymology The word munchkin is a blend of the following Munich German city kin d