What does spermatocyte mean?
A spermatocyte is a specialized male germ cell that develops in the testes and divides by meiosis, the cell-division process that halves the number of chromosomes. During this process, a primary spermatocyte first produces secondary spermatocytes, which then divide again to form spermatids; the spermatids mature into spermatozoa. The term is mainly used in biology, histology, embryology, and reproductive medicine. It is more precise than saying simply “sperm cell,” because a spermatocyte is an immature precursor rather than a mature sperm cell. The word also helps distinguish stages of male germ-cell development: spermatogonia precede spermatocytes, while spermatids and spermatozoa follow them. Understanding spermatocytes is important for studying sperm production, fertility, testicular development, and the effects of drugs, toxins, and other factors on male reproduction.
nounA cell in the male reproductive system that develops into a sperm cell. Spermatocytes divide by meiosis, producing cells that mature into spermatozoa.
- A male germ cell that undergoes meiosis to produce cells which develop into spermatozoa.
"The primary spermatocyte undergoes the first meiotic division, ultimately giving rise to haploid sperm cells."
"The primary spermatocyte entered the first stage of meiosis in the seminiferous tubule."
"Researchers examined the development of spermatocytes and their response to environmental stress."
The plural is formed by adding -s; in technical writing, “spermatocytes” commonly refers to cells at any stage of this type.
"The tissue contained numerous spermatocytes undergoing meiosis."
A spermatocyte is a cell on the precise point where ordinary cell division gives way to the specialized process that creates sperm.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spermatocyte come from?
The word combines the combining form spermato-, from Greek sperma, meaning “seed” or “sperm,” with the combining form -cyte, from Greek kytos, meaning “cell.” It was coined in the 19th century as part of the scientific vocabulary describing reproductive biology. Related terms include spermatozoon, spermatid, and spermatogenesis, all of which refer to sperm or the process of producing it.
Related word forms
How spermatocyte is actually used
This is a technical biological term used chiefly in reproductive biology, histology, and embryology. It is not normally used in general conversation.
Easily confused with spermatocyte
A spermatogonium is a diploid germ-cell precursor that divides to produce spermatocytes, whereas a spermatocyte undergoes meiosis to form haploid cells that mature into sperm.