1. one of two twisted cord-like structures in an egg that hold the yolk in place
Usage: biology; usually used in plural form 'chalazae'
2. in botany, the basal end of an ovule where the integuments and nucellus are joined
Usage: botany; technical

Examples

• The chalazae in a chicken egg are visible as white strands when you crack it open.
• When examining an egg under a microscope, the chalazae help anchor the yolk to the egg white.
• The chalaza of the ovule is an important structural feature in plant reproduction.
• Botanists study the chalaza to understand ovule development.
• The two chalazae extend from opposite poles of the yolk in bird eggs.