Nematocyst
[nem-uh-tuh-sist, ni-mat-uh-] /ˈnɛm ə təˌsɪst, nɪˈmæt ə-/
noun, Zoology.
1.
an organ in coelenterates consisting of a minute capsule containing an ejectable thread that causes a sting.
/ˈnɛmətəˌsɪst; nɪˈmætə-/
noun
1.
a structure in coelenterates, such as jellyfish, consisting of a capsule containing a hollow coiled thread that can be everted to sting or paralyse prey and enemies
n.
1875, from nemato-, comb. form of Greek nema, nematos “thread” (genitive nematos), from stem of nein “to spin” (see needle (n.)) + cyst.
nematocyst nem·a·to·cyst (něm’ə-tə-sĭst’, nə-māt’ə-)
n.
A capsule within specialized cells of certain coelenterates containing a barbed, threadlike tube that delivers a paralyzing sting.
nematocyst
(něm’ə-tə-sĭst’, nĭ-māt’ə-sĭst’)
One of the minute capsules in the tentacles of cnidarians, such as jellyfish, hydras, or sea anemones, used for stinging. The capsule is produced by a special cell (called a cnidoblast) and contains a tightly coiled barbed thread that quickly shoots forth if the capsule’s lid is disturbed. The thread often contains poison.
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