Protoplasmic is a word that refers to the living substance found in cells. It is spelled as [proh-tuh-plaz-mik], where the stressed syllable is 'plaz' and the 'o' is pronounced as a short vowel. The 'p' is followed by an 'r', and then an 'o', 't', and another 'o'. The final syllable is pronounced as 'mik', with the 'i' sounding like a long vowel. The IPA transcription of the word lets us understand the articulation of each sound that forms this complex term.
Protoplasmic refers to anything that is related to or characteristic of protoplasm - the living material that forms the basis of all cells. Protoplasm is the essential substance that comprises the cytoplasm and nucleus of a cell. It is a complex, colloidal substance that exhibits vital functions and is responsible for the maintenance and growth of living organisms.
In a broader sense, protoplasmic can describe any biological processes or structures that involve or are composed of protoplasm. It can refer to the various components within the cell, such as the organelles and cytosol, which collectively work together to ensure the normal functioning of the cell.
The term protoplasmic can also be used to describe the essential living material found in unicellular organisms, fungi, plants, and animals. It encompasses the various biochemical reactions and metabolic processes that are carried out within this vital substance to maintain life.
Protoplasmic can also be used to describe the overall composition or characteristics of living organisms. It implies the presence of a complex system of molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates, that are essential for the growth, reproduction, and overall functioning of living organisms.
In summary, protoplasmic refers to anything that relates to, is composed of, or is characteristic of protoplasm - the essential living material within cells and organisms, responsible for the maintenance and growth of life.
Pert. to the first growth or formation; Pert. to the material of formation of living bodies.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "protoplasmic" comes from the combination of two terms: "protoplasm" and the suffix "-ic".
The term "protoplasm" was coined by the Czech physiologist Jan Evangelista Purkyně in 1835, who introduced it as the living substance found inside cells. He derived the word from the Greek words "proton" meaning "first" or "primary", and "plasma" meaning "something formed or molded". Thus, "protoplasm" literally means "the first-formed substance".
The suffix "-ic" is a commonly used word-forming element in English, derived from Latin and Greek word roots. It is used to indicate "of or relating to" or "characterized by". In the case of "protoplasmic", it denotes something related or pertaining to protoplasm.