noun
- immature egg cells in female animals that develop into mature eggs through meiosis
Usage: biology; medical
Examples
- The researcher studied oocytes under a microscope to understand egg development.
- Primary oocytes are arrested in the first stage of meiosis until ovulation.
- The fertility clinic carefully examined the patient’s oocytes for quality.
- Oocytes undergo complex changes as they mature into fertilizable eggs.
- Scientists can freeze oocytes for future use in assisted reproduction.
- The number of viable oocytes decreases with age in mammals.