meristem

/məˈrɪstɛm/

Definitions

1. noun

The region of a plant where cell division occurs, leading to the growth of new tissues and organs.

“The meristem of the shoot tip is responsible for the plant’s primary growth.”

2. noun

In animals, a group of cells that can differentiate into different cell types.

“The meristem in the embryonic stage of a mouse is crucial for its development.”

3. noun

A region of undifferentiated cells that can differentiate into different cell types.

“The meristem in the skin of a frog is responsible for its regeneration.”

Synonyms

  • apical meristematic region
  • growing point

Antonyms

  • dormant tissue
  • quiescent cells