Pronunciation: [jˈə͡ʊkdʌkt] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word commonly spelled as "yolkduct" is actually "yolk duct". It refers to the tube-like structure that transports yolk in female reproductive systems. The use of "yolk" as one word and "duct" as another highlights the separation between the two concepts conveyed by the term. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled as /jəʊk/dʌkt/, with a long "o" sound in "yolk" and a short "u" sound in "duct".
Yolkduct, also known as vitellicle duct, refers to a narrow tubular structure or passage within the female reproductive system of animals. Specifically, it is a duct that serves to transport the yolk, a nutrient-rich substance, from the ovary to the site of fertilization or to the egg, in species that lay eggs.
In animals such as birds, reptiles, and monotremes, the yolkduct plays a crucial role in the reproductive process. After the yolk is formed and released from the ovary, it passes through the yolkduct where it undergoes modifications and maturation. These modifications involve the deposition of additional nutrients and the development of the yolk into a structure that is capable of nourishing the developing embryo.
In egg-laying species, the mature yolk, along with the albumen (egg white), is then surrounded by membranes and deposited into the developing eggshell, resulting in the formation of a complete egg. The yolkduct ensures the efficient transfer of the yolk from the ovary to the egg, allowing for successful reproduction in these species.
Overall, the yolkduct is an essential anatomical structure in species that lay eggs, as it enables the transportation and maturation of the yolk, which is vital for the embryonic development and survival of the species.
The term "yolk duct" is a compound word derived from the combination of two individual words: "yolk" and "duct".
The word "yolk" comes from the Old English word "geoloc", which ultimately traces back to the Proto-Germanic word "geluka" meaning "yolk" or "yellow part". This word has cognates in different Germanic languages.
The word "duct" comes from the Latin word "ductus", which means "a leading" or "a conduit". It is derived from the verb "ducere", meaning "to lead" or "to draw".
Combining these two words, "yolk duct" refers to a conduit or passage that carries or transports the yolk, which is the nutrient-rich substance found in the center of an egg.
