ECTOPLASTIC Meaning and
Definition
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Ectoplastic is an adjective that pertains to or relates to the outermost layer or surface of a cell or living organism. Derived from the root "ecto-" meaning "outer" and "plastic" implying "moldable" or "formable," the term primarily describes the characteristic or function of an organism's outer layer, whether it refers to a single cell or a multicellular organism.
In biology, ectoplastic usually denotes the ability of certain cells or organisms to change their shape, structure, or behavior according to external conditions. It signifies an adaptability or responsiveness of the outer layer to the surrounding environment, often to facilitate functions such as locomotion, defense, or nutrition.
The ectoplastic nature can be observed in various organisms. For instance, the outermost layer of unicellular amoebas exhibits ectoplastic characteristics as they extend pseudopodia, temporary projections of cytoplasm, to move and feed. In the context of multicellular organisms, the ectoplastic properties of the epithelial tissue enable it to stretch, contract, and modify its shape to protect and cover underlying structures.
Overall, ectoplastic encompasses the outer layer's capacity to undergo physical and structural changes to respond to external stimuli or optimize functionality. By enabling adaptation and interaction with the environment, the ectoplastic nature supports vital physiological processes across a wide range of organisms.
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Ectoplasmic, formed at the periphery.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ECTOPLASTIC
- wctoplastic
- sctoplastic
- dctoplastic
- rctoplastic
- 4ctoplastic
- 3ctoplastic
- extoplastic
- evtoplastic
- eftoplastic
- edtoplastic
- ecfoplastic
- ecgoplastic
- ecyoplastic
- ec6oplastic
- ec5oplastic
- ectiplastic
- ectkplastic
- ectlplastic
- ectpplastic
Etymology of ECTOPLASTIC
The word "ectoplastic" is derived from two roots: "ecto-" and "-plastic".
The prefix "ecto-" comes from the Greek word "ektos", meaning "outside" or "external". It has been widely used in various fields to indicate something situated on the outside or outer surface.
The suffix "-plastic" originates from the Greek word "plastikos", which means "to mold" or "to form". It is commonly used to describe something related to molding, shaping, or being capable of being molded into different forms.
Therefore, combining these two roots, "ectoplastic" refers to something that can be molded, shaped, or formed externally or on the outer surface.
Similar spelling word for ECTOPLASTIC
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