Pronunciation: [ˈuːlɛmə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "oolemma" can be a bit confusing due to its unusual appearance. However, if we break it down using IPA phonetic transcription, it becomes easier to understand. The first syllable "oo" is pronounced as /u/, followed by "lem" pronounced as /lɛm/. The final syllable "ma" is pronounced as /mə/. So, the correct pronunciation of "oolemma" is /uˈlɛmə/. This word refers to the membrane that surrounds an ovum or egg cell.
Oolemma refers to the outermost membrane or layer that surrounds the egg cell or ovum. It is predominantly found in female organisms, specifically in animals and plants that reproduce through sexual reproduction. The term "oolemma" is derived from the combination of two words: "oo-" (related to eggs) and "lemma" (meaning husk or sheath).
The oolemma plays a crucial role in fertilization as it acts as a protective barrier for the egg cell. It is a selectively permeable membrane that controls the movement of substances, such as nutrients and signaling molecules, into and out of the ovum. This membrane is responsible for maintaining the internal environment of the egg cell, allowing it to react to stimuli, undergo necessary changes during maturation, and protect against potential threats.
During fertilization, the oolemma also serves as the site of interaction between the sperm and egg. It plays a vital role in recognizing and binding with the sperm, facilitating the fusion of their genetic material, and initiating the process of embryonic development.
In certain medical contexts, oolemma may also refer to the specialized outer membrane of an unfertilized egg that is used in artificial reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). In such cases, it is essential to manipulate the oolemma to assist in the successful penetration of the sperm and facilitate fertilization.
Zona pellucida.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "oolemma" is derived from the Greek words "oo-" and "lemma".
In Greek, "oo-" (ᾠόν) means "egg", specifically referring to the ovum or egg cell. It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*awi" related to birds and eggs.
"Lemma" (λῆμμα) in Greek means "husk" or "covering". It is derived from the Greek verb "lambanein", meaning "to take" or "to receive".
Therefore, the combination of "oo-" and "lemma" in the word "oolemma" literally translates to "egg covering" or "egg membrane". It is commonly used in biology to describe the outer membrane of an egg cell or ovum.
