noun
cell
A small group operating within a larger organization.
A small cell organizes the underground group's local work.
Etymology
Latin cella named a small room or chamber. An organizational cell is similarly a small, distinct unit within a larger whole, often keeping its own activities partly separate.
More examples
- Each cell operated without knowing the others' members.
- The investigation uncovered several isolated cells.
- Only the leader knew how the cells communicated.
Forms
cell · cells