noun

apoptosis

uh-pop-TOH-sis

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Apoptosis (noun) means Apoptosis is a process of programmed cell death in which a cell follows an ordered sequence of steps that ends in its own destruction, as part of normal growth, ageing, or a response to injury. Example: “Damaged cells often trigger apoptosis rather than dividing further.”

noun

technical Apoptosis is a process of programmed cell death in which a cell follows an ordered sequence of steps that ends in its own destruction, as part of normal growth, ageing, or a response to injury.

"Damaged cells often trigger apoptosis rather than dividing further."

"Apoptosis removes cells that are no longer needed as an embryo develops."

"Researchers studied how the drug pushed cancer cells into apoptosis."

How to use apoptosis

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishApoptosis is the body's built-in way of switching off and clearing away cells it no longer needs.

When to use it

This word belongs to biology and medicine and rarely appears outside technical or scientific writing.

Memory tip

The middle syllable carries the stress, so say it as uh-pop-TOH-sis rather than stressing the first syllable.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

necrosis →

Common pairings

undergo apoptosis trigger apoptosis apoptosis pathway induce apoptosis cells undergo apoptosis

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “apoptosis” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Damaged cells often trigger _____ rather than dividing further.

Etymology

Apoptosis comes from an Ancient Greek word meaning a falling off, itself built from a prefix meaning away from and a noun meaning falling. The image is of something dropping away, as leaves fall from a tree.

Origin: Ancient Greek

Rhymes for apoptosis

meiosis mitosis osmosis stenosis acidosis zoonosis cyanosis necrosis neurosis hypnosis fibrosis silicosis

See all rhymes for apoptosis →

Frequently asked questions

What does apoptosis mean?

It is the scientific term for programmed cell death, where a cell is deliberately broken down and removed in an orderly way.

Is apoptosis the same as necrosis?

No. Apoptosis is an orderly, programmed process, whereas necrosis is uncontrolled cell death usually caused by injury or disease.

Why does the body use apoptosis?

It clears out cells during normal growth and development, as part of natural ageing, and in response to cell damage.

What is the meaning of apoptosis?

"apoptosis" (noun) means apoptosis is a process of programmed cell death in which a cell follows an ordered sequence of steps that ends in its own destruction, as part of normal growth, ageing, or a response to injury.