morula

/ˈmɒrʊlə/; /mɒˈroʊlə/

Definitions

1. noun

A stage in the early development of a mammalian embryo, characterized by a compact cluster of cells, typically before implantation; the early blastocyst in birds.

“The morula stage of the embryo occurred during the third week of gestation.”

2. noun

A type of early stage of an animal’s development, often used to describe the state of compact cells before hatching or emergence.

“The morula stage is crucial in determining the eventual development of the insect.”

Synonyms

  • blastocyst
  • embryoblast

Antonyms

  • adult
  • maturity