First Known Use: 1892
Dictionary
macronucleus
noun mac·ro·nu·cle·us \ˌma-krō-ˈnü-klē-əs, -ˈnyü-\
Definition of MACRONUCLEUS
: a relatively large densely staining nucleus of most ciliate protozoans that is derived from micronuclei and controls various nonreproductive functions
— mac·ro·nu·cle·ar \ˌmak-rō-ˈnü-klē-ər, -ˈnyü-, ÷-kyə-lər\ adjective
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Origin of MACRONUCLEUS
New Latin
Medical Dictionary
macronucleus
noun mac·ro·nu·cle·us \ˌmak-rō-ˈn(y)ü-klē-əs\
plural mac·ro·nu·clei \-ˌī\ also mac·ro·nu·cle·us·es
Medical Definition of MACRONUCLEUS
: a relatively large densely staining nucleus of most ciliate protozoans that is derived from micronuclei and controls various nonreproductive functions—compare micronucleus
—mac·ro·nu·cle·ar \ˌmak-rō-ˈn(y)ü-klē-ər\ adjective
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