HealthJuly 18, 2026
zygote
ˈzaɪɡoʊt
Definition
A fertilized egg cell resulting from the union of two gametes, representing a specific developmental stage in the life cycle of the parasite Cyclospora.
Etymology
The word comes from the Greek word 'zygōtos,' meaning 'yoked' or 'joined.' It entered scientific English in the late 19th century to describe the cell formed by the union of two reproductive cells.
In the news
The article uses the term to identify the infectious stage of the parasite Cyclospora. It highlights that even a very small number of these organisms can lead to an infection if ingested.
Cyclosporiasis Outbreak 2026
Read the full article ↗Johns Hopkins Medicine