WordLens

cell

1 of 1noun
/sɛl/
Forms:cells
1

an organism's smallest unit, capable of functioning on its own

B2Learn more on Wikipedia

A cell is the basic structural and functional unit that forms the foundation of all living organisms. It is the smallest unit of life capable of carrying out essential processes, such as metabolism, reproduction, and responding to stimuli. Cells have specialized structures and organelles that enable them to perform specific functions, such as the nucleus containing genetic material, mitochondria producing energy, and the cell membrane regulating the exchange of substances. Together, cells make up various tissues, organs, and systems, working harmoniously to maintain the body's structure, function, and overall health.

  • The study of cells, known as cell biology or cytology, delves into their structure, function, and interactions.
  • Cells can be classified into two main categories: prokaryotic cells, lacking a nucleus, and eukaryotic cells, which have a nucleus enclosed within a membrane.
  • The discovery of cells and the development of cell theory by scientists such as Robert Hooke and Theodor Schwann revolutionized our understanding of living organisms.
  • Cells are the building blocks of life, with each one containing a complex system of organelles and molecules.
2

a very small enclosed space in which a prisoner is kept

B2
  • The prisoner was confined to a small cell for the duration of his sentence.
  • She peered through the bars of her cell, hoping for a glimpse of the outside world.
  • The guard checked each cell to ensure all inmates were accounted for.
  • The dimly lit cell offered little comfort, with only a narrow bed and a small window.
  • He spent hours alone in his cell, contemplating his actions and their consequences.
3

a portable mobile telephone operating in a network divided into small areas, each with its own transmitter and receiver

  • She answered her cell while walking through the park.
  • Cellular coverage allows calls to connect even in remote cells.
  • The salesman kept a cell on his belt for urgent messages.
  • He dropped his cell, but it still worked perfectly.
  • The cell battery died during the long trip.
4

any small compartment or enclosed space that is part of a larger structure

  • The honeycomb consists of hundreds of tiny hexagonal cells.
  • The laboratory incubator has separate cells for different cultures.
  • The battery tray contained a row of cylindrical cells.
  • Each cell in the spreadsheet holds a specific piece of data.
  • The spacecraft's fuel tank is divided into multiple pressure cells.
5

a device that produces electrical current through a chemical reaction

  • The flashlight requires two AA cells to function.
  • Lead-acid cells are commonly used in car batteries.
  • Solar cells convert sunlight directly into electricity.
  • The scientist tested the voltage output of a new cell design.
  • Alkaline cells provide longer battery life than zinc-carbon ones.
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6

a small private room in which a monk, nun, or religious recluse lives

  • The monk returned to his cell for meditation.
  • Nuns spend part of the day in silence within their cells.
  • The abbey's cells are simple, with a bed and a small desk.
  • Each cell provides solitude for reflection and prayer.
  • Visitors are not allowed inside the monks' cells.
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7

a small organizational unit serving as part of, or as the nucleus of, a larger political or activist movement

  • The revolutionary group operated through underground cells.
  • Each cell coordinated activities independently to maintain secrecy.
  • The party assigned a leader to oversee each local cell.
  • Security forces infiltrated one of the militant cells.
  • The activists formed a study cell to discuss strategies.
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