Pronunciation: [sˈɛljuːl] (IPA) 
The word "cellule" is spelled with two Ls, despite its pronunciation being /sɛljul/. This phonetic transcription shows that the double L represents the sound of the French double consonant "ll", which is pronounced as /j/ in this case. The word "cellule" is derived from the Latin word "cello," meaning a small room or chamber. In French, it can refer to a cell or compartment of an organism, or to a small prison cell.
The term "cellule" originates from the French language and is primarily used in scientific and medical contexts. It refers to a structural and functional unit that constitutes all living organisms.
In biology, a cellule is defined as the basic building block of life. It is the smallest, self-sufficient unit capable of performing all vital functions necessary for an organism's survival. Cells may vary in size, shape, and specialized functions but share common features such as a plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and genetic material (DNA). Each cellule is enclosed by a membrane that selectively allows substances to enter or exit. The cytoplasm within the cellule contains various organelles that carry out specific functions, such as energy production, protein synthesis, and waste removal. Additionally, the genetic material within the nucleus directs cellular activities and transmission of hereditary information.
Moreover, the term "cellule" is also used in pathology to describe abnormal or diseased cells. For instance, the identification of cancerous or tumor cells involves examining cellules under a microscope to assess their structure, division rate, and overall behavior.
Overall, a cellule is the fundamental unit of all living organisms, responsible for maintaining life processes. Its study encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including molecular biology, cytology, and pathology, greatly contributing to our understanding of life's complexity and providing insights into various diseases and their treatment.
Cellula.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A little cell.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "cellule" is derived from the Latin word "cellula", which means "small room" or "cell". In Latin, "cellula" referred to a small enclosed space, such as a small room or chamber. The term later evolved in Old French as "celle", meaning a small religious retreat or monk's cell, as well as a small compartment or chamber. Over time, the term "cellule" in French came to be used in various contexts, including biology, to describe a small unit or compartment.
