Morphotic (mɔrˈfɑtɪk) is a word coined in the early 20th century to describe a type of adult stem cell found in bone marrow. The spelling of the word is derived from its root, the Greek word "morphē," meaning shape or form. The suffix "-otic" means pertaining to or having the characteristics of. When pronounced, the stress falls on the second syllable, and the "p" is silent. While the word may be unfamiliar to some, it is an important term in the field of stem cell research.
Morphotic is an adjective that refers to something relating to or characterized by shape or form. The word derives from the Greek terms "morphē" (meaning form or shape) and "-tic" (used to denote a quality or characteristic).
In a general sense, when something is described as morphotic, it implies that it possesses distinct physical features or characteristics that make it easily identifiable or distinguishable. These features may include the overall structure, appearance, or design of an object or entity.
In a more specific context, morphotic can also be used within the field of biology or zoology to describe the external physical attributes of an organism. Within this realm, morphotic is used to highlight the shape or form of various body parts, such as the morphotic variations exhibited by different species or the differentiation of characteristics within a species.
Moreover, when used in a scientific or technological context, morphotic can describe the characteristics, patterns, or arrangements of certain materials or substances. It can refer to the shapes or forms of crystals, molecules, or substances observed under specific conditions, such as in a laboratory or during a scientific experiment.
Overall, the term "morphotic" emphasizes the importance of shape, form, or structure in defining or differentiating an object, organism, or substance.
Relating to morphosis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "morphotic" is derived from the blend of two words: "morph" and "totem". Let's break down their etymologies:
1. "Morph": Derived from the Ancient Greek word "morphḗ" (μορφή), meaning "form" or "shape". It entered English through the Latin word "forma", which also means "form" or "appearance".
2. "Totem": Comes from the Ojibwe (a Native American language) word "odoodem", referring to clans or family groups. In English, the term gained popularity through its use by scholars and anthropologists studying Indigenous cultures.
By merging the elements of "morph" and "totem", the term "morphotic" was created to encompass the idea of forms or shapes associated with totems.