1. the division of the cytoplasm of a cell during cell division, typically occurring after nuclear division (mitosis or meiosis) to form two daughter cells
Usage: biology term; occurs in both plant and animal cells

Examples

• During cytokinesis, a cleavage furrow forms in animal cells to separate the cytoplasm.
• In plant cells, cytokinesis involves the formation of a cell plate rather than a cleavage furrow.
• Cytokinesis typically follows mitosis to complete the process of cell division.
• Without proper cytokinesis, a single cell would not successfully divide into two daughter cells.
• The timing of cytokinesis is carefully regulated to ensure equal distribution of cellular contents.