German word

Zelle

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈtsɛlə/

Meaning

  • feminine nouncell

Example

Die Zelle teilt sich schnell.

The cell is dividing rapidly.

Illustration for Zelle (cell)

More examples

In der Zelle befinden sich viele Organellen.

Many organelles are found in the cell.

Core concept

A small enclosed unit that functions as part of a larger living, electrical, or institutional whole.

Common phrases

  • in der Zelle

    in the cell

  • Stammzelle

    stem cell

  • einzelne Zelle

    single cell

Similar words

Zellkern: The part of a cell that contains genetic information and directs its activities.
Zytoplasma: The fluid inside a cell where many chemical reactions take place.
Gewebe: A group of similar cells working together as a body structure.
Organ: A body part made of several tissues that performs a specific function.

Definition in German

Eine Zelle ist ein meist mikroskopisch kleines Bauelement lebender Organismen; der Begriff wird auch für einzelne Abteile in Batterien oder Gefängnissen verwendet.

Word origin

Latin cella, 'small room' or 'chamber', is the source of German Zelle; the chamber idea later extended to biological units and units in batteries and prisons.

Usage tips

  • Zelle is feminine, so the standard singular forms are die Zelle, eine Zelle, and der Zelle in the dative or genitive.

Other meanings

  • prison cellnoun

Related words

  • Zellteilungcell divisionnoun
  • Zellmembrancell membranenoun
  • zellulärcellularadjective

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