The spelling of "embryonic shield" is straightforward once you understand the sounds that make up the word. The first syllable starts with the short "e" sound (ɛ), followed by the "m" sound (m). The second syllable features the long "o" sound (oʊ), which is spelled with the letter group "embryo" and then ends with the "n" sound (nɪk). Lastly, the last syllable consists of the "sh" sound (ʃ) and the "l" sound (l) that create the word "shield." So, altogether, the correct spelling is "em-bry-on-ik shild."
Embryonic shield refers to a distinct structure found in the developing embryos of some organisms, particularly fish and amphibians. It is a specialized thickened region of the embryonic tissue that plays a crucial role in early embryogenesis.
The embryonic shield typically appears as a shield-shaped or oval structure on the dorsal side of the embryo. It is formed during the gastrulation process, which is the phase of embryonic development where the three germ layers (ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm) are established. The shield arises from specific cells in the dorsal region of the blastoderm, the outer layer of the embryo.
One of the major functions of the embryonic shield is to induce the formation of other tissues and structures in the developing embryo. It acts as an organizer that releases signals and molecular cues to neighboring cells, providing instructions for their differentiation and positioning. These signals enable the formation of organs, tissues, and the overall body pattern. Additionally, the embryonic shield also serves as a place of cell proliferation, contributing to the growth and expansion of the embryo.
Overall, the embryonic shield is a specialized structure in early embryos that plays a fundamental role in organizing and guiding the development of various tissues and organs. It is a key component in the complex process of embryogenesis, contributing to the establishment of body structures and ultimately shaping the overall anatomy of the organism.
An area of proliferating cells in the developing ovum in which the primitive streak appears.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "embryonic" originated from the Late Latin term "embryonicus", which is derived from the Greek word "embryon", meaning "unborn child" or "embryo". "Embryon" itself is formed from the Greek prefix "en-" meaning "in" or "within", combined with the word "bryein" meaning "swell" or "be full".
The term "shield" has a different origin. It comes from the Old English word "sceald", which later transformed into "sheld" in Middle English. The Old English word was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*skelduz", meaning "shield" or "buckler".
Putting the two together, "embryonic shield" refers to a protective structure or barrier in the early stages of development, akin to a shield surrounding an embryo.