Fertilization
- Pronunciation
- /fer-til-i-ZAY-shun/
- Category
- Reproduction
- Singular
- Fertilization
- Plural
- Fertilizations
Definition
The process by which a male gamete (sperm) fuses with a female gamete (egg), resulting in the formation of a zygote.
Etymology
From Latin 'fertilitas', meaning 'fertility' or 'fruitfulness'.
Example
The fertilization of an egg by a sperm initiates the development of an embryo.