apoptosis
noun/ˌeɪpəpˈtoʊsɪs/
Frequency rank: #13,130 most common English word
Meaning
The process of programmed cell death in multicellular organisms.
Example sentence
During development, the body uses apoptosis to eliminate cells that are no longer needed.
Synonyms & related words
- self-destruction
- death
- degradation
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 13,101–13,200
- accuserA person who claims that someone has done something wrong or illegal.
- adrenalrelating to the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys and produce hormones such as adrenaline.
- aloofDistant and unfriendly in manner; not involved or interested.
- amuletAn object worn as a charm to ward off evil or bring good luck.
- apologeticfeeling or expressing regret or remorse for having done something wrong.
- arcaneKnown or understood by very few people; mysterious or secret.
- aristocratA member of the highest social class, typically with inherited wealth and noble titles.
- artyMaking a showy display of interest in or appreciation of art; pretentiously artistic.
- astrophysicsthe branch of astronomy that applies the laws of physics and chemistry to explain the nature and behavior of celestial objects.
- barbershopa shop where a barber cuts and styles men's hair