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Glite Dictionary
👻 Spirit substance 🧫 Outer cell layer
ectoplasm

ectoplasm

9.9
The clear outer layer of the material inside a cell that helps the cell keep its shape and move
  • noun
  • /ˈɛktəˌplæzəm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : ectoplasma
  • The scientist examined the ectoplasm under a microscope.

Examples

  • The ectoplasm of the amoeba is essential for its movement and shape.

  • The ectoplasm forms a protective barrier around the cell.

  • Scientists observed that the ectoplasm remains clear while the endoplasm contains granules.

  • Protozoa contain a jelly-like ectoplasm that supports cellular functions.

  • The scientist studied the ectoplasm under a microscope to understand its role in cellular processes.

  • In protozoa, ectoplasm plays a crucial role in maintaining cell shape and movement.

  • The researchers focused on the ectoplasm, noting its clear appearance and importance in cellular functions.

Synonyms

hyaloplasm
vsectoplasm
  • Specialized
9.9

The clear part inside a cell where tiny parts float

is the outer layer rather than the inner suspension area
ground substance
vsectoplasm
  • Specialized
7.4

A clear jelly inside a cell that holds its small parts

is the outer layer rather than a general internal matrix

How Internal

nucleoplasm
  • Specialized
9.2
endoplasm
  • Specialized
9.9
ectoplasm
  • Specialized
9.9

Surface Forms

ectoplasm singular
ectoplasms plural

Morphology

ectoplasm = plasm (transparent) = ecto + plasm

Directly composed of 'ecto-' (outer) + 'plasm' (substance) and describes the outer layer of cytoplasm in cells.

Etymology

Ectoplasm comes from the Greek parts ecto- meaning 'outside' and plasma meaning 'something formed' or 'substance' (the same plasma you see in 'blood plasma'), so in biology it names the clear outer layer of a cell — the 'outside substance' that helps give the cell its shape.