noun

prokaryote

proh-KAR-ee-oht

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Prokaryote (noun) means an organism whose cells have no nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles. Example: “Bacteria are prokaryotes because their genetic material floats freely inside the cell.”

noun

An organism whose cells have no nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles.

"Bacteria are prokaryotes because their genetic material floats freely inside the cell."

"Under a microscope, a prokaryote's cell looks much simpler than a cell with a nucleus."

"Archaea are prokaryotes that can survive in extremely hot or salty environments."

How to use prokaryote

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA prokaryote is a simple, single-celled organism whose cell has no nucleus.

When to use it

This is a scientific term used in biology rather than everyday speech.

Memory tip

Notice the cell has no nucleus, which is the whole point of the word: 'pro-' plus 'karyon' (nucleus).

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

eukaryote →

Common pairings

prokaryotic cell simple prokaryote

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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 “prokaryote” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Bacteria are _____ because their genetic material floats freely inside the cell.

Etymology

The word joins the prefix pro-, meaning before, with karyon, referring to a nucleus, and the ending -ote. Together the parts describe a cell type that exists without a true nucleus.

Origin: Greek

Rhymes for prokaryote

OTE vote note rote dote tote wrote quote remote coyote capote peyote

See all rhymes for prokaryote →

Frequently asked questions

What is a prokaryote?

A prokaryote is an organism made of cells that lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

What are examples of prokaryotes?

Bacteria and archaea are the main groups of organisms classed as prokaryotes.

Why don't prokaryote cells have a nucleus?

The term simply describes cells built without one; the absence of a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles is the defining feature of a prokaryote.

What is the meaning of prokaryote?

"prokaryote" (noun) means an organism whose cells have no nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles.