1. A cap-like structure at the head of a sperm cell that contains enzymes used to penetrate and fertilize an egg.
Usage: biology; technical

Examples

• The acrosome of the sperm cell releases enzymes that help it break through the egg's outer membrane.
• During fertilization, the acrosome reaction allows the sperm to fuse with the egg.
• Scientists studied the acrosome to better understand male infertility.
• The acrosome contains hydrolytic enzymes essential for successful fertilization.
• Damage to the acrosome can prevent a sperm cell from fertilizing an egg.