Pronunciation: [sˈɛl wˈɔːl] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "cell wall" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. The first sound is the "s" sound /s/ followed by the "eh" sound /ɛ/. The next sound is the "l" sound /l/ and then the "w" sound /w/. The second word, "wall," begins with the "w" sound /w/ followed by the "ah" sound /ɔ/ and ends with the "l" sound /l/. Together, "cell wall" is pronounced /sɛl wɔl/.
A cell wall is a rigid, protective outer layer that surrounds the cell membrane of plant cells, bacteria, fungi, and many algae. It is responsible for providing structural support and protection to the cell, maintaining its shape and preventing it from bursting under internal pressure.
The cell wall is composed primarily of cellulose, a complex carbohydrate made up of long chains of glucose molecules linked together. This gives the wall its strength and rigidity. Other components of the cell wall may include hemicellulose, pectin, lignin, and various proteins.
In plant cells, the cell wall is an essential feature that differentiates them from animal cells. It serves as a barrier against pathogens, physical stress, and helps maintain turgor pressure, which is the internal pressure exerted on the cell by the influx of water. The cell wall also plays a role in cell-to-cell communication and support, as it allows materials to pass between adjacent cells through specialized channels known as plasmodesmata.
In addition to providing structural support, the cell wall also determines the cell's shape and contributes to its growth and development. It can expand or contract depending on the changing needs of the cell.
Overall, the cell wall is a crucial component of a cell's anatomy, providing protection, support, communication, and structural integrity. Its presence and composition vary among different organisms, contributing to their unique characteristics and capabilities.
The word "cell wall" is a compound noun composed of the words "cell" and "wall".
The term "cell" originates from the Latin word "cella", meaning a small room or compartment. It was first used in biology to describe the microscopic units that make up living organisms.
The word "wall" comes from the Old English word "weall", derived from the Proto-Germanic word "wallaz". It refers to a vertical structure built to enclose or divide an area.
The combination of these two words, "cell wall", refers to the rigid layer that surrounds and protects the cell, providing structural support and regulating the exchange of materials into and out of the cell. The term was likely coined in the context of cell biology and became widely used in scientific literature.
