Definition

Noun: 1. An early stage in embryonic development: A morula is a solid, spherical mass of cells (blastomeres) formed by the rapid cleavage (division) of a fertilized egg (zygote). It is a key stage that occurs before the formation of a blastula.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The zygote undergoes several rounds of division to form a compact ball of cells called a morula.
  • In mammals, the morula stage is reached when the embryo consists of about 16 to 32 cells.
  • The transition from morula to blastocyst involves the formation of a fluid-filled cavity.

Advanced Usage

• "Morula stage": Refers specifically to the period of embryonic development characterized by the morula structure.
  • The embryo is typically at the morula stage when it enters the uterus.

Variants and Related Words

• Morular (adj): Of or relating to a morula.
  • The morular cells are tightly compacted.

Synonyms

• Pre-blastula stage: A descriptive synonym emphasizing its position in the developmental sequence.
• Solid ball of blastomeres: A literal description of its structure.

Noun

1. a solid mass of blastomeres that forms when the zygote splits; develops into the blastula