noun
fertilization
fur-tuh-luh-ZAY-shuhn/ˌfɜːrtələˈzeɪʃn/
The joining of reproductive cells to begin the development of offspring.
The diagram shows fertilization as a sperm fuses with an egg.
Etymology
Fertilize originally meant “make fertile” and acquired the biological sense “unite with an egg cell.” Fertilization names this reproductive process, in which the union of cells begins development.
In context
Fertilization is the epic story of a single sperm facing incredible odds To unite with an egg and form a new human life
More examples
- The lesson explained fertilization in flowering plants.
- Development began after successful fertilization.
- Researchers observed the stages leading to fertilization.
Forms
fertilization
fertilize verb — join reproductive cells
Similar words
- pollination
- Pollination transfers pollen; fertilization joins reproductive cells and occurs afterward in flowering plants.
- conception
- Conception is a related reproductive term, often used for the beginning of pregnancy; fertilization names cell fusion specifically.