Pronunciation: [mˌɒnə͡ʊzɪɡˈɒtɪk] (IPA) 
The word "monozygotic" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˌmɒnəʊzaɪˈɡɒtɪk/. This complex term refers to identical twins who are formed when a single fertilized egg splits into two embryos. The word comprises three roots; "mono" meaning one, "zygo" meaning yolk, and "tic" being a suffix. The spelling may appear overwhelming, but it can be dialed down to its roots to make it more manageable.
Monozygotic is an adjective that describes twins who are developed from a single fertilized egg. It specifically refers to identical twins, who share the same genetic material and are almost indistinguishable in appearance. The term "monozygotic" is derived from the Greek words "mono," meaning "single," and "zygote," referring to a fertilized egg.
When a single egg is fertilized by a sperm, it divides into two identical embryos, resulting in monozygotic twins. These twins have the same DNA sequence and genetic information, as they originate from the same zygote. Typically, monozygotic twins share many physical characteristics, such as facial features, hair color, and height, but may have slight variations due to environmental factors or other influences.
Monozygotic twins are formed spontaneously and occur in about 3 in every 1,000 pregnancies. They are often described as having an exceptional bond due to their shared genetic makeup, which may result in similar personality traits and interests. However, it is important to note that monozygotic twins can still have unique experiences and develop individual characteristics, influenced by factors such as upbringing, education, and personal choices.
Overall, "monozygotic" is a term used in genetics and biology to describe the type of twin that originates from one fertilized egg, possessing identical genetic composition and sharing many physical traits.
The word "monozygotic" is derived from combining two Greek roots: "mono-" meaning "one", and "zygote" which refers to a fertilized egg.
Specifically, "mono-" comes from the Greek word "monos" meaning "alone" or "single". It is often used as a prefix in English to indicate singularity or unity.
"Zygote" stems from the Greek word "zygōtos", meaning "yoked" or "joined together". In biology, it refers to the initial cell formed when the sperm and egg fuse during fertilization.
In the context of "monozygotic", the term is used to describe identical twins who develop from a single fertilized egg that splits into two separate embryos. "Monozygotic" therefore implies that the twins share the same genetic makeup.
