procaryote

/prəˈkɛriət, -ˈkɑri-/

Definitions

1. noun

A single-celled or multicellular organism that lacks a true nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, such as chloroplasts.

“The scientist studied the unique characteristics of procaryotes in the soil samples.”

2. noun

A type of organism that reproduces by binary fission, such as bacteria or archaea.

“Procaryotes play a crucial role in decomposing organic matter in ecosystems.”

Synonyms

  • archaea
  • bacterium
  • microorganism
  • prokaryote

Antonyms

  • eukaryote