Diplokaryon

/ˌdɪploʊˈkɛriən/ noun

Definition

A cell nucleus or organism containing two sets of chromosomes, or sometimes a cell with two nuclei.

Etymology

From Greek 'diplos' (double) + 'karyon' (nucleus, kernel). This technical term appears in cytology to describe either diploid nuclei or binucleate cells.

Kelly Says

Some cells actually develop two nuclei instead of one—that's a diplokaryon, and it can happen when a cell starts to divide but something goes wrong, leaving it with twin command centers.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.