Morphogenesis

Pronunciation
/mor-fo-JEN-esis/
Category
Development

Definition

The creation of form, specifically referring to the developmental processes that result in the establishment of the structure and shape of an organism.

Etymology

From Greek 'morph-', meaning 'shape', and 'genesis', meaning 'creation'.

Example

During morphogenesis, the cells of the embryo undergo a series of coordinated movements to form distinct tissues and organs.

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