noun
gamete
GAM-eet
Gamete (noun) means a reproductive cell, such as a sperm or egg, that carries half the normal number of chromosomes. Example: “A sperm is a male gamete and an egg is a female gamete.”
noun
1
A reproductive cell, such as a sperm or egg, that carries half the normal number of chromosomes.
"A sperm is a male gamete and an egg is a female gamete."
"Two gametes combine at fertilisation to form a new cell."
"Each gamete carries half the genetic material of the parent."
How to use gamete
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sex cell, such as a sperm or egg, used in reproduction.
When to use it
A technical biology term, used in scientific rather than everyday contexts.
Memory tip
Remember that both sperm and egg cells are examples of gametes, one contributed by each parent.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
male gamete
female gamete
gamete formation
fuse gametes
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A sperm is a male _____ and an egg is a female gamete.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek words for wife, gametḗ, and husband, gamétēs, both ultimately from gámos, meaning marriage.
Synonyms
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sex cell
reproductive cell
germ cell
Rhymes for gamete
See all rhymes for gamete →Frequently asked questions
What is a gamete?
It's a reproductive cell, such as a sperm or an egg, carrying half the usual number of chromosomes.
Is a gamete the same as a sex cell?
Yes, sex cell is simply another name for a gamete.
Where does the word gamete come from?
It comes from Ancient Greek words for wife and husband, which themselves trace back to a word meaning marriage.
What is the meaning of gamete?
"gamete" (noun) means a reproductive cell, such as a sperm or egg, that carries half the normal number of chromosomes.
